Families are created in many unique ways. If you have found yourself in the role of a parent because the child's biological parents are unwilling or unable to care for the child, there are many reasons to legalize the parent-child relationship.
At the Law Office & Mediation Services of Elissa C. Goldberg, LLC, we focus exclusively on family law matters. More than 24 years ago Elissa Goldberg began her legal career as an international adoption lawyer. Today, her broad experience with all types of family adoptions and family law cases has helped her find solutions for clients throughout Bucks County and Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
Questions About Adopting a Niece, Nephew, Grandchild or Stepchild? Contact Doylestown Attorney Elissa Goldberg
Maybe you have been providing care for a niece or nephew. Maybe the young person living with you is a grandchild or a stepchild. Whatever the situation, the void left by the absent parent can also create significant legal concerns for you and the child.
In many cases, an absent biological parent will voluntarily agree to relinquish his or her parental rights. In these situations, our office will prepare the pleadings and represent the adoptive parent in court.
When a parent objects to the adoption, you can ask the court to terminate his or her rights so that an adoption can proceed. This proceeding, however, can be difficult as the legal standard for termination of parental rights is very high. If a parent does not agree to the adoption, you must show that the parent has abused, neglected or abandoned the child or is otherwise unfit to retain parental rights.
Whether the adoption is contested or voluntary, our role is to streamline the legal process for the adoptive parents and make sure there are no loopholes or complications. Depending on the situation, our work may include:
- Finding or attempting to find and notify an absent parent of the adoption proceeding
- Obtaining consent which terminates a parent's rights, when possible
- Gather evidence, including documents and witnesses to show that the child's best interests are served by cutting ties to the biological parent
Once parental rights are terminated by order of the court, the formal adoption process can usually proceed smoothly. This will involve a hearing with a judge who will review the adoption petition. We make sure that all the paperwork is in order and all deadlines and verifications are met.
Contact a Bucks County Stepparent Adoption Lawyer
Experience and attention to detail are critical in the adoption process. Even in cases that appear to be straightforward, it is important to have an advocate who can anticipate problems and address any objections or complications that arise. Contact our Doylestown kinship adoption law firm or call office at 215-345-5259 to schedule a free consultation today.