Adoption is very exciting, though it can also be complicated. If you are someone seeking an adoption, there are several things you must know before moving forward. Adoption is a document-heavy, and sometimes intrusive process. For example, when you adopt a child, you may be subjected to home visits, background checks, interviews, and more. Additionally, there are several different types of adoption available to those living in New Jersey, which is why you must ensure you choose the type best suited for your situation. Please read on to learn more about the different types of adoption in New Jersey:
- Domestic Adoption: Domestic adoption is when an individual in the United States adopts a child who was born in and lives in the United States.
- Private Adoption: Private adoption is adopting a child that you either already know, or adopting a child with the expressed consent of the child’s biological parent. When you get a private adoption, you can usually circumvent adoption agencies.
- International Adoption: Though international adoptions are sometimes more complex than domestic adoptions, in that generally, they require a significant amount of travel to and from the child’s home country, they are also extremely rewarding. However, you will need an experienced attorney to help you along the way.
- LGBT Adoption: Fortunately, members of the LGBT community are allowed to adopt children in New Jersey, though LGBT adoption is not legal in every state.
- Second-Parent Adoption: Second-parent adoption is also not legal in every state, though fortunately, it is in New Jersey. Essentially, second-parent adoption is when a same-sex parent adopts a biological or adoptive child without terminating the first parent’s legal parental status.
- Adult Adoption: Adult adoption generally exists between two or more adults, with the essential purpose of either transferring inheritance rights or filiation.
- Stepparent Adoption: Generally, stepparents can only adopt their stepchild if the child’s biological parent gives his or her consent, or if an incident of abuse or neglect has been proven, thereby terminating the biological parent’s parental rights.
If you are ready to begin the adoption process, please reach out to our firm. We are more than happy to assist you, every step of the way.
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