Wichita Adoption Attorney Tom McDowell has represented both adoptive parents and biological parents involved in many types of adoptions. We know that many parents who are unable to have biological children may be hesitant to consider adoption as an option because they are overwhelmed with questions and unsure where to turn for answers. Our Kansas adoption law firm is committed to bringing together prospective parents desperate to raise a child and children who need loving parents. We understand the apprehension that both biological and adoptive parents experience when they do not have information about their rights, responsibilities and adoption options. While the best way to obtain specific information about your unique situation is to contact a Kansas adoption law firm and schedule an initial consultation, we have provided answers to general preliminary questions we often receive from prospective clients.
How is adoption defined?
Adoption refers to the formal legal transfer of parental rights and responsibilities from one couple or parent to another person or couple. The process involves the formal legal process of terminating the biological parents’ rights so that the adoptive parents have the same legal relationship to the child as the biological parents did prior to the adoption process.
How long should I expect the adoption process take?
A number of factors can impact the length of time required to complete an adoption. These factors include the duration of your homestudy, the time it takes to identify an adoptive child, whether you must participate in a pre-adoption education program and other factors. The average period of time to complete the process is a year or perhaps two years.
What should I expect when the homestudy is conducted?
Homestudies vary from state to state but generally they involve a detailed interview and application process conducted by a social worker. The process may include reference verification, criminal background checks, face-to-face interviews and one or more home visits. While the duration of the homestudy can vary, they typically last approximately three to six months.
If I am in the armed services can I adopt?
Even if both parent are in the military this will not disqualify the prospective parents from adopting. The military will even provide a one-time reimbursement for the costs of an adoption in an amount up to $2,000 per child. The total amount that may be reimbursed is $5,000.
Can I adopt a child if I am gay or a lesbian?
Most states permit adoption by gay and lesbian adoptive parents. Some states allow gay or lesbian couples to adopt jointly. An experienced adoption attorney can advise you regarding your rights to adopt as a homosexual parent in your state.
Wichita adoption attorney Thomas C. McDowell has been practicing law for over two decades. We provide legal representation in agency, foreign and step-parent adoption. We offer a free consultation so that we can evaluate your situation so call us today at 316-269-0746 or submit an online case evaluation form.