We’re Here To Help Adoptions Go Smoothly
If you’re planning to adopt a child, you want the process to go as smoothly as possible, and that means hiring an attorney experienced in family law. If you’re in the greater Peoria area and are looking for legal help, contact Stephens, Fiddes, McGill & Associates, P.C. at 309-637-5297.
Why Do You Need An Adoption Attorney?
Adoption attorneys are an important component of adoption. In most cases, you’ll need an attorney to finalize your adoption. Additionally, a good adoption attorney will also do much more, serving as an important resource along the way. Obviously, the process of adoption can be a complex one. Therefore, hiring the right adoption lawyer can make the process go more smoothly.
What Services Does An Adoption Attorney Provide?
Adoptions can vary greatly depending on the circumstances. Some examples of adoptions and related services we can provide include:
- Stepparent adoptions
- Adoptions within the extended family, such as a grandparent adopting a grandchild
- International adoptions
- Helping identify a reputable adoption agency
- Preparing paperwork
- Advising you on home study
- Negotiating adoption terms
- Arranging legal reimbursement for birth costs
- Explaining adoption laws at all levels, from local to international
Can An Adoption Attorney Represent Both Sides?
Basically, the answer is no. Even in cases when both the birth family and the adoptive family have a good relationship, both parties need to have separate legal counsel.
What Expenses Can Adoptive Parents Provide To Birth Mothers?
Under Illinois law, adoptive parents can pay certain medical and living expenses but paying certain other expenses is prohibited. Therefore, your adoption attorney will assist you in keeping all gifts and reimbursements proper under the law.
What If The Birth Parents Change Their Mind?
It’s important to realize this does sometimes happen. A well-conducted adoption process that respects both parties can help the adoption proceed as planned but it cannot guarantee birth parents will not change their minds. However, if the birth parents choose not to place their child for adoption, the prospective adopting parents cannot seek reimbursement from the birth parents or their families. Your adoption attorney is an important resource in these matters.
Are You Ready To Work With An Adoption Attorney?
Solid experience in family law is important. For adoptions, custody, divorce and other matters related to family law in the Peoria area, call Stephens Fiddes McGill & Associates, P.C. at 309-637-5297.