Adoption

Understanding The Adoption Process

Adopting a child is a complex legal process. The basic steps involved with finalizing an adoption include:

  • Negotiating an adoption assistance agreement with the agency that has custody of the adoptee
  • An adoption petition hearing
  • Litigating any disputes if they arise with the biological parents, the adoption agency or a government agency
  • Surrogacy

Once the adoption is finalized, the legal benefits of permanent custody and parenthood will be realized immediately.

The adoption process may seem arduous, but the adoption court’s work to ensure the adoption is in the best interests of the child and that parental rights are not being violated is critical to completing a successful adoption.

It is vital that you proceed through the process with a highly qualified Pennsylvania adoption attorney.

The Adoption Services At Our Law Office

Based in Bethlehem, our attorneys have experience handling adoptions involving many different scenarios, allowing us to utilize our knowledge to help achieve an expedient final adoption decree for our clients.

We often assist with the following:

  • Stepparent adoption
  • Grandparent adoption
  • Same-sex or second-parent adoption
  • Agency adoption
  • Surrogate mother adoption

Expertise In Interstate And International Child Custody Matters

Attorney Linda Shay Gardner has extensive experience with child custody matters and is a recognized authority relating specifically to interstate and international child custody and abduction matters.

She often consults with the Office of Children’s Issues in the U.S. Department of State and regularly advises attorneys throughout the country regarding such matters.

Whether the adoption is voluntary, and the biological parents are providing consent, or an involuntary termination of parental rights, we have the knowledge and experience to help you.

Contact us to schedule a consultation. To learn more about the adoption process in Pennsylvania, click here.