parent with children

Every family is different, so when it comes to adoption, each family or individual will have a different situation. For this reason, there are various ways to go about adopting a child. Read on to learn more about adoption in New Jersey and the various paths you can take.

What are the Different Types of Adoption in New Jersey?

If you are considering adoption, you should look into the following possibilities to determine which is right for you and your family:

  • Domestic adoption: This is when you adopt a child who was born in the United States, as a family or individual who also lives in the United States. Open domestic adoptions are becoming increasingly popular. Open domestic adoption is when the child’s birth parents agree to the adoption and may have ongoing contact with the child and adoptive family. 
  • International adoption: Sometimes also referred to as intercountry adoption, is when you adopt a child who was not born in the United States. This type of adoption can be incredibly rewarding, though it is important to know that it may be a more involved process, and it usually requires a lot of travel.
  • Private adoption: If you are adopting a child you already know or are adopting through the child’s biological parent, then you are most likely having a private adoption. You will generally avoid adoption agencies in these cases. 
  • Stepparent adoption: If a stepparent seeks to adopt his or her stepchild, he or she must either obtain permission from the stepchild’s non-custodial parent, or the court must terminate the parental rights of the biological parent. This termination will typically only occur if there is evidence of neglect or abuse.
  • Adult adoption: This type of adoption usually exists between two or more adults, and its primary purpose is to transfer inheritance rights and/or filiation.
  • LGBT adoption: Since LGBT adoption is legal in New Jersey, members of the LGBT community may adopt a child if they wish.
  • Second-parent adoption: A second-parent adoption allows a same-sex parent to adopt his or her biological or adoptive child without terminating the first parent’s legal status as a parent.

If you are considering adoption, contact our firm to speak with a dedicated family law attorney about beginning the process.

Contact our Firm

We understand that those getting a divorce most likely have several questions regarding the weeks and months to come. Paris P. Eliades Law Firm, LLC is honored to serve the people of New Jersey, including Sparta, Sussex County, Morris County, Passaic County, and Bergen County with the quality legal services they deserve. If you are getting a divorce or have any other questions regarding divorce-related matters, please do not hesitate to contact our firm for a consultation today.