If you are considering adopting a child, you probably understand the significance of your decision. Adopting a child is one of the most special things someone can do for another human being. Naturally, since adoption is such a big deal, the process is not always easy. There are several hurdles you may have to jump if you wish to adopt, so you need to be sure it is something you are fully ready to take on. Here are the different types of adoption available in New Jersey:
- Domestic adoption: This is when you, a United States resident, choose to adopt a child who was born in the United States. Open domestic adoptions are becoming increasingly popular. An open domestic adoption is when your adoptive child’s birth parents consent to the adoption and have ongoing contact with the child.
- International adoption: Adopting a child from another country is known as an international adoption. This process usually requires a good amount of travel, so it is important you understand all it entails before proceeding.
- LGBT adoption: In New Jersey, LGBT couples are allowed to adopt a child. This is not legal everywhere in the country, but thankfully in New Jersey, it is.
- Second-parent adoption: A same-sex parent may adopt his or her biological or adoptive child without terminating the first parent’s legal status as a parent.
- Private adoption: A private adoption is when you are either adopting a child through his or her biological parent, or you are adopting a child you already know. You can usually avoid adoption agencies by taking this route.
- Step-parent adoption: This form of adoption requires either the consent of the non-custodial parent or the termination of his or her biological parental rights. Usually, the only grounds for this is evidence of abuse or neglect.
- Adult adoption: This is when two or more adults wish to transfer inheritance rights and/or filiation.
If you wish to adopt a child, you may be required to participate in training courses, home inspections, home visits, reference checks, background checks, interviews, and more. This is why you must retain a compassionate attorney who will help move the process along as seamlessly as possible. The adoption process is very document-heavy, so you will be doing yourself a favor by hiring an experienced attorney to help you accurately complete any form or document that comes your way.
Contact our 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.
