Adoption is a lengthy and costly process. Private domestic adoptions in Kentucky can cost up to $50,000 on average and can take several years to finalize. Whether you are looking into a domestic adoption or an international one, the legal element can be confusing at best. Adoption attorneys and family lawyers can offer a great deal of support. Ultimately, every adoption case is different, and every family has unique needs.
The Adoption Process
In the U.S., adoption laws vary from state to state. To adopt in Kentucky, one must be 18 or older and clear a home visit, background checks, and interviews. Often, adoption agencies have their own set of rules and qualifications for prospective parents.
Families that wish to adopt from the birth parents will pay for the cost of pregnancy and childbirth, as well as other related expenses.
Expenses can include the following:
- Legal fees
- Cost of placement
- Expenses of the birth parents
In some cases, the birth parents or potential adoptive parents violate the contract. Some agencies have protections for financial risks, but others do not. Adoption attorneys are valuable in the negotiation stage of adoption contracts to ensure that both parties agree to the terms and make good on them. If your adoption contract terms were violated, you can consult an attorney to determine your rights.
What Can an Adoption Attorney Do?
Adoption attorneys usually handle the legal side of the process. Lawyers with a specialization in adoption are very beneficial when navigating the legal complexities of the adoption process. Some may even offer to help families find their adopted children’s birth parents, but agency professionals have more familiarity with these matters.
Pros and Cons of Adoption Lawyers
Some elements of adoption need the experience of a social worker or agency professional. Depending on the case, the birth parents may need a social worker to help them cope with pregnancy and childbirth. Social workers also help the birth mother to feel safe and comfortable with the adoptive family. However, when legal complications arise, adoption attorneys are necessary to help the case move forward.
Lawyers who practice adoption laws can offer families security and legal counsel throughout the process. When issues arise related to adoption contracts, qualified attorneys are vital. They can navigate legal complications and help families build a firm contract to protect both parties. Qualified attorneys have the experience families need to navigate their adoption case.
Helping Families Come Together
Many children in the U.S. and other countries need loving parents. However, the adoption process can be daunting and, often, complications arise that exponentially increase the cost and time of the adoption process.
The Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher has served our community for over 30 years in state and federal matters. Attorney Bratcher believes that clients are more than just a case number. They are unique individuals with a variety of experiences looking for a helping hand in their case. That’s why we make our clients’ needs our priority by providing attentive and compassionate legal counsel.
If you need an adoption attorney, call the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher at (270) 783-8311 or visit us online to schedule a confidential consultation.