There are few facets of family law more rewarding to an attorney than helping a parent, or parents, adopt a child. Adopting a child is a selfless act, though the rewards of doing so are mutual. That being said, there are many different types of adoption available to individuals in California, which is why it is critical individuals here understand what those types are, what they mean, and which type of adoption is best for them. Please continue reading and reach out to our experienced team of California family law attorneys to learn more about the various types of adoption available. They are as follows:
- Domestic Adoption: This is for parents who live in the United States and wish to adopt a child who was also born and lives in the United States. This is perhaps the most common form of adoption. Nowadays, more and more parents are pushing for what is known as “open domestic adoption,” wherein the child can remain in contact with his or her biological parents, as this often fosters a healthier environment for the child when he or she is growing up.
- International Adoption: This is when someone chooses to adopt a child who is living in another country. Though this type of adoption often requires a bit more effort, as you may have to travel to and from the child’s country several times, the truth is, it is ultimately an extremely rewarding process.
- Private Adoption: Private adoptions are when a parent adopts a child that either he or she already knows, or when someone adopts a child through that child’s biological parent. Oftentimes, many adoptive parents choose this route, as, in many cases, it does not go through the foster care system.
- Adult Adoption: Oftentimes, adult adoption is used when at least two adults wish to transfer filiation or inheritance rights.
- Second-Parent Adoption: This is when one marriage partner adopts his or her partner’s biological or adoptive child without terminating the first parent’s legal rights.
- Stepparent Adoption: Depending on your circumstances as a stepparent, to adopt your stepchild, you will either need explicit consent from the child’s biological parent, or you will have to prove that the child’s biological parent is not fit to be parent due to instances of neglect or abuse. That being said, in most cases, step-parent adoption is simply for stepparents who have close bonds with their stepchildren and wish to officially be recognized as that child’s parent.
For any additional questions, please do not hesitate to speak with our knowledgeable California family law attorneys today.
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Divorce and family law issues are notoriously complicated and personal, which is why you must hire an attorney with years of experience, as well as the compassion and skill needed to handle these sensitive matters. For the qualified, dedicated legal representation you and your family deserve and need, contact Zitser Family Law Group, APC today.
