Are you considering adopting a child? If so, it is important to fully understand your various options. Read on to learn more about the different types of adoption available in New Jersey.
Types of adoptions in New Jersey:
Every family is different and is adopting a child for a different reason. As a result, there are different types of adoptions. The most common types include:
- Domestic Adoption: This type of adoption occurs when a United States resident adopts a child who was born in and lives in the United States. This will typically occur through an adoption agency.
- International Adoption: This type of adoption involves adopting a child who was born in and lives in another country. While this can be a great experience, it is often a lengthy and complex process. This is because the process typically involves a lot of travel to the child’s home country.
- Open Domestic Adoptions: When an open domestic adoption occurs, the child’s birth parents consent to the adoption and have ongoing contact with the child. This contact can range from the adoptive parents sending occasional photos and updates to the birth parents, to the birth parents visiting the child. The situation will depend upon what all parties agree to.
- Private Adoption: This occurs when a parent adopts a child through their biological parent or adopts a child the individual already knows. This option avoids the involvement of an adoption agency.
- Stepparent Adoption: In some cases, a stepparent will adopt his or her stepchild. However, this can only occur with the consent of the non-custodial parent or the termination of their biological parental rights. Termination is typically only on the grounds of abuse or neglect.
- Second-Parent Adoption: This allows a same-sex parent to adopt their biological or adoptive child, without terminating the other parent’s legal status as a parent.
- Adult adoption: This typically involves legal matters. For example, adult adoption may occur in order for two or more adults to transfer inheritance rights and/or filiation.
Why do I need an attorney for an adoption?
Regardless of the type of adoption you choose, it is important to work with an experienced family law attorney. Each process can be complex and invasive and will require extensive paperwork, records, and more. An attorney can help walk you through the process.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact our firm today.
Contact Our Experienced New Jersey Firm
Ross and Calandrillo, LLC is a full-service divorce, family, and real estate law firm located in Mountainside, New Jersey. For strong legal representation in all of your divorce or family law matters, contact Ross and Calandrillo, LLC to schedule a consultation.
