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12 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
I hired Scott Stevens of Stevens and Stevens over 2 years ago and he has completely neglected my case. He has seemingly ignored my case entirely only securing 1 court date over the course of these 2 years. He even neglected to contact the people I listed to help me win my case.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
I really wish I were posting differently, because my initial visits with this attorney and her partner instilled within me a hope I hadn't had in this very long legal journey (almost 10 years). This firm seemed very confident they could help us, and I believed in them. They were patient, knowledgeable and kind.
My spouse and I consulted with Ms. Williams and Mr. Hazlett in July 2021 with regard to a stepparent adoption. We had been in a relationship for 7 years or so, and had recently married and wished to file for adoption of our child as soon as the required one year passed - July 2022. We were assured that they were familiar with the complications of a case like ours, and that we could expect the process to take six months after the initial filing. To note - we were very specific about being expedient as possible. We paid the retainer fee of $4500, submitted the paperwork needed and kept this firm apprised of the domestic violence situation as it evolved (the reason this post is made anonymously).
I made contact with Ms. Williams in January 2022 in preparation for some groundwork issues and I was assured that she and her partner had just been talking about our case and that things were going to be moving forward quickly.
That was the last that I heard from this office until a year later, January 2023, six months after our case was supposed to have been filed and about the time we should have been expecting to wrap up the case. I contacted Ms. Williams twice, only getting a response after a month and a second email that opened an old thread. I was essentially told that my case fell off the radar - nothing was done. This was while we were patiently waiting for news we were going to court. Both partners apologized.
Obviously, we were crushed and astounded and apologies don't fix that. I asked for a refund over a month ago, which was promised to me, and I have yet to receive it.
I am posting this so that someone won't go through what we went through. If I had gone with a different attorney, our situation would very likely be different by now and I wouldn't be out the retainer that I need for another attorney. We - including our child - are heartbroken.
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27 Feb, 2016 by Sherry
This attorney never followed up or informed me with information regarding my child support case. Was very unconcerned, only returned one phone call. Very condescending and rude. I'm still unaware of were I stand with my case and having to do the work myself. He took the money and left me in the dark. I would never recommend this attorney to anyone I know.
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07 Aug, 2014 by Jane
Mr. Nolan was ill prepared and did not appear to be aware of all the facets of the law to properly assist me. He did not keep his promises to me; and did not respond in a timely manner. Thus I paid more than I needed to for his work.
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19 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Hasn't spoke to ANY key witnesses in my case. Just got my final offer in the mail. Had a question about it and called every day for a week with no return phone call. If you want someone to lay your file on the desk and only pick it back up on court day then this is the lawyer for you. She was appointed to me, and unfortunately I do not have the funds to hire someone else.
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16 Mar, 2010 by Anonymous
I never really felt Carl looked out for my best interest. He seemed to just go through the motions. Write him a check and lets get this process done as quick as possible was the way it seemed. He overlooked some major concerns i had in the beginning of the process.
I thought maybe i would eventually think he was pretty standard but i really wish i would have went in a different direction. Going to court is very stressful so make sure you find someone that is knowledgeable and not just trying to make a dollar.
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05 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
She talked a big game in the initial consultation (for this alone I was slapped with an enormous bill). When all was said and done, I got standard child support, and half of my ex's enormous debt load - that's it. Could have gotten that walking in there by myself. To top it off, received a HUGE bill 4x what other lawyer's had quoted me during their FREE initial consultations. She did not listen to me, she charged me to keep redoing paperwork that I told her straight away my ex would never agree to. She kept saying, if we go to court we'll get A, B, and C, but when push came to shove, told me it wasn't worth going to court because we'd never get A, B, or C. Extremely frustrating experience. I also thought she initiated way too much personal conversation which I later realized she was charging me an arm and a leg to listen to. Totally not worth it. I'm still shoveling out money to her while my ex is living the high life.
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26 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
she greatly misinformed our family without taking time to get the proof facts and caused alot of unnecessary harm.
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07 May, 2022 by Bobbie
I was married for 14 yrs in a marriage that lasted way too long. He left me financially destroyed. My Lycans didn't get me any sort settlement on the divorce. Didn't even try to. In the custody battle, I had 3 cases left to trial, she switched to my ex husband's lawyers law firm & could no longer represent me. So I had to hire another attorney last minute. What was worse is that she had put in her contract that I signed originally that I couldn't get my money back if it happened. So she knew the entire time she was switching to his lawyers lawfirm. Totally screwed me over & has no soul. Do not hire.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Richard
Called this office today, and although it plainly says on Justia that “civil rights” is an area of law they practice the woman I spoke to do seemed uninterested, claimed they DID NOT practice in that area of law, and would be fired if this was my practice. If a lawyer isn’t to help, then just exactly what is their purpose? To ignore people by means of uppity receptionist who screen calls like the gestapo? Wow?! I would have never guessed. Another attorney from California answered several questions regarding the current legal situation I am describing on Justia and he encouraged me to find a an attorney in my area because the facts I provided him with, he felt that my rights had been violated, with video surveillance to contradict and confirm the truthfulness of my account, yet the AI receptionist I encountered today was like a real life Terminator. Arnold would be proud. I hope all attorneys I contact are not like this. No help for the poor, never.
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16 Jan, 2020 by Jessica
I was referred to this attorney and qualified for a free phone consultation. Maybe that is why I was treated the way I was treated. This woman would not let me finish a sentence, kept rushing me, wouldn't let me explain my entire situation, and spoke to me as if I were dirt on the ground. When I asked her if I could finish what I was saying, after being interrupted for literally an entire 10 min conversation (I was entitled to 30 minutes), she replied with, "I don't think this is going to be a good fit". I completely agreed. I have never been spoken to in such a way by a "professional" before. I have never gone out of my way to give a bad review, but I was in tears by the end of the call due to how cruel she was. All I wanted was some advice. Please, do not bother with this attorney, unless you want to be made to feel terrible. I get the feeling that if I had a lot of money, I may have been treated quite differently.
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04 May, 2023 by Sarah
Would NOT recommend hiring Natalie Pigg for an attorney. Natalie previously "represented" me (she was attorney with Lowry Law Firm) & did absolutely nothing to my file. I recently requested a copy of my file from the law firm & there is no documentation that she did any work on my file. There are no emails, notes, her name is not in 1 single document that shows she did any work. I provided Natalie with documentation & had witnesses willing to speak on my behalf & she did not use or present any to the hearing on which she ", represented" me on. This review is not a opinion of Natalie, but are facts & I would rather represented myself then spent time or money with Natalie.
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11 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Does dirty, shady work. Is never compassionate. Does not send proper notification, never mails statements, goes behind your back. Don't hire, don't patronize his business.
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26 Jan, 2015 by Kevin
I hired David to meet with my client about a will. He talked a good game until i gave him authority to contact the client. When he arrived at the retirement community he refused to get on the elevator because he weighed too much. He pressured her into giving him a check for $850.00.. He demanded a 90 year old widow talk about her private information in a public restaurant that all her neighbors eat at. He wrote down her name and her beneficiaries grab the check and took off. She asked how are you going to do a will if you haven't talked to the guy who handles my financial accounts. He said this is a very simple will. She felt like she got scammed. When I called the office to talk about the unfortunate event that happened he asked me "who I was" I responded by saying I am the one that hired you for $150.00 to meet with my client and you pressured her into giving you a check for $850.00 he said I don't talk about my clients personal affairs and hung up. After calling him for 2 weeks he finally returned the widow's call. She instructed him to speak with me and to apologize for being rude. He disappeared again for many days. When he did call her back he said he had the will done and he was not going to work with the man that hired him. She told him she was seeking other representation and he intimidated her to tears. He called her until we told him every time she calls us crying about him we are recording the calls he finally stopped. We still have not seen the money returned. Beware of this guy he prayed on the elderly and he wanted to charge her $850 to write down her name and her beneficiaries.
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14 May, 2018 by Phil
I hired Lacee Whimpey to assist with an amicable divorce. Our initial meeting was productive. It took a couple of months for my wife and me to work through asset division, but when we finished this I sent this information to her (March 23). That's when she stopped communicating. She didn't read my email. Failing to receive an acknowledgement, I sent a followup email on April 2. She acknowledged she failed to read the first email, and replied "I'll be in touch" (April 3). I requested a progress update by email on April 26 but again received no response. Finally I called on May 7. She was in but would not take my call. The receptionist said she would have Lacee call me back. Two days later I sent an email indicating that she had lost my trust and requested that she restore it immediately by responding or I would need to find a new attorney. She responded by apologizing that she was too busy to assist with my case. She promptly returned the balance of my retainer.
In short, I do not question her competence. Rather, my poor review is due to complete lack of professionalism associated with failure to communicate. Divorce is painful enough, but Lacee made ours more painful by failing to respond in a professional manner during a seven week period.
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09 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
She failed to do her due diligence while representing me within Family Court. She failed many times to communicate with the court on my behalf. She wasted a full year during my case ! Had to have Marsden hearing to replace her with a different 18b
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05 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
He is too old to still practice law. He seemed very knowledgable and competent during his sales pitch. In court he would forget details we had discussed 10 min prior on several occasions. In the end when time came for the final settlement he was "ill" and couldn't appear. He sent a young inexperienced lawyer to sit in for him. I ended up going back and forth with my ex's lawyer while she sat quietly. Dave is a nice guy but it' might be time to call it quits when you're almost 90 years old. Don't end up in a position where you can't afford another retainer.
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12 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
She seems very sweet but she over bills. She is unorganized and did not keep me informed. She didnt return my calls. I always had to call her and never got a clear answer. Personality wise she is OK but business wise very horrible.
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14 Jul, 2011 by Sue
Attorney Michael Whare acted unethically when working with my case. He showed very little consideration or compassion, lacked knowledge about the law, and was not trustworthy. Michael Whare dealt with me in an abrupt manner, crossed boundaries that he should not have, and did not do his job. I would never recommend him. He lacks empathy and is not an attorney who will be with you ever step of the way. An attorney should be a support during a difficult time in someone's life, but instead Michael Whare treated me as I was a burden.
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08 Oct, 2021 by Karrie
Hired this Attourney to aid in termination of rights. The mother a vile abusive monster. Margaret abandoned her firm and cases without notification. She left many cases high and dry for a prestigious new position. We lost now exposing our children to the worst possible scenario. We are now expected to hand our children over to an abusive, high, disgusting person who fills their heads full of craziness and hate. They were thriving. Happy well adjusted kids who overcame so much trauma. She really should be reprimanded. She who professes to help children abandoned us. They will suffer greatly. There is no pain like having to hand your children over to the person who severely abused them.
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11 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
This lawyer took an inordinate amount of money from me, didn't know basic facts about the case, did not present needed Information and documents, insisted I not testify and cost myself and cost my family time money and unnecessary problems Another lawyer picked up the ball, studied the case, presented correct documents, defended me and the truth and won Totaro was callous, insensitive and dishonest.
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24 Apr, 2008 by Anonymous
First of all, here's the same review I wrote for LawyerRatingz.com:
Dean Collins had originally represented me in a DUI case that took two years to come infront of a judge. Upon cowering in the presence of said judge, Dean Collins turned to jelly. He fumbled over his words, completely contradicted himself, and ultimately got me thrown in jail for 8 days until a new lawyer could be found. During the two year period it had taken my case to come to fruition, I had since graduated college, and established myself in a lucrative, productive career. Dean Collins advised me not to bring any of this up infront of the judge because, according to him, it was trivial. Ultimately, I found out later that it would have been a good idea to bring up these points infact, and prove that I've been able to move on. As I sat in the bullpen, Dean Collins could only come up with a lame excuse to try and save his own dignity. He said to me, "That judge is crazy! You saw how he treated me!" Yeah, well I'm the one sitting in jail.
Other than that (since I have more space here), Dean Collins constantly acted as if he was friends with everyone at the courthouse. Somehow, this helped him imagine that he could easily get me out of my dilemma . . . which turned out to be false. Not only did no one I dealt with from any of the departments at the courthouse seem to give Dean Collins any time of day whatsoever, but he also came off toward me, his own client, as consistently cranky and disagreeable. I'll be honest here when I say that Dean Collins did not seem to even like me very much. He made it quite clear by showing little eye contact, hardly any interest in my concerns, and constant agitation with any question I ever had. He was also quite patronizing, and encouraged me to stay out of it, keeping me in the dark for the most part. His attitude basically stated to me, "leave these matters to the grown-ups." Instead of actually fighting for me, took the easy way out with a plea bargain that was based on imaginary connections that he clearly did not have. He spent most of our days in court, standing around the back room, waiting for someone to talk to him, but rarely accomplished anything.
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11 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Absolutely the worst attorney I’ve ever seen or hired he completely sabotage my case his firm and his self only do when you call is send you love to the voicemail it takes months for them to return your call or if even that they just the worst and I would never refer them to anyone
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19 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Paid this guy 1k of a 1500 retainer to file paperwork in order to be heard in a court room. Not only did he NOT tell me he doesn't work those kinds of cases he took it on like he knew what he was doing. He ended up having to call other lawyers, while in my presence, asked them how to go about filing the correct paper work, which paperwork was correct, and who he needed to talk to. After being told what to do by other attorneys he still managed to mess up the paper work, the order that the paper work was diled, All the while judging his client for the way he looks. He is a nice older man somewhat, but very incompetent and a waste of $1,000 that I can't get back and could have used for another attorney. I do not recommend this man for any legal problems what so ever. His actions cost me my case
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25 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Miller in September 2016. He charged me a flat fee to handle my case. We went to a hearing that lasted approx 1.5 hours. He promised to file petitions before Christmas 2016. I heard again from him in February explaining that he has been sick and asking for more money to file petitions. By mid April no petitions were filed. He deserves 0 stars. Now fighting to get my money back
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15 Apr, 2011 by Linda
we hired nancy to do our sons adoption. before he was born she was paid in full. after months of un-returned calls we hired another lawyer. not a single paper had been filed on behalf of our sons adoption. it took months and thousands of dollars to clean up this mess not to mention the emotional tally. thanks to the other lawyer we hired, we still have our son but this could have had a completely different ending.
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14 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Eileen was appointed to us by Montgomery County as a child advocate. When we spoke on the phone she seemed bothered by the fact that I wanted to speak about my sisters case with her. She barely asked any questions and I felt very rushed to get off the phone. The day of our hearing was the first time we met and we didn’t even talk in private about what was going to happen or our case. Before we went in front of the judge she told my sister she should just throw out the case because she wasn’t going to win. My sister, already terrified that she had to testify against her parents didn’t need to be put down like that. She needed someone with positivity and reassurance that she would not have to go back to an abusive home. When we finally got in front of the judge, Eileen did nothing to make a case for my sister. She asked the general questions but when my sister started to be attacked verbally by my parents, she sat there and did nothing to revert the questions about the abuse. She made it seem like my sister was the problem child and that it was okay that my parents abuse her the way that they do. My sister is terrified for her life and Eileen did nothing to protect her.
On a side note, I did seem like there was a similar case before us that ended up the same way and when the child came out crying she looked at him and with a demeaning face and voice asked him why he was crying.
Someone who is willing to allow children to go back to their abusive homes, is someone who should not be working with children. I strongly suggest that if you are looking for a custody lawyer to look elsewhere, and if she ends up being you appointed child advocate, contact the clerk of courts and ask for someone else. I would not want to see any other child go through what my sister had today.
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17 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
Perhaps, Ms. Asonye and her partner have improved over the last three years, but when I employed them (Asonye and Asonye, LLP) for visa help, they were not helpful at all. They were recommended to me by an associate of the company I worked for, for the application of an H1 visa. There were basic aspects of the process, that I would expect a lawyer who claims to be an immigration lawyer to know, that they did not know (eg. when the visa cap was reached, what companies at the time qualified for special consideration for cap exemption (later found out when I hired a real immigration lawyer), special instructions given for H1 master's cap etc). In fact, I had to inform Ms. Asonye of some of these things, and without that information, my visa application may have been declined for a second time under her advisement. They cost myself, and the company I was working for, a lot of money over two application processes.
Beware of attorneys who claim to know immigration law. Do your homework; look them up; and ask lots of questions before hiring them.
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27 Jun, 2013 by Termain
This is one of the worst lawyers in the world she is not the one for anyone . This lawyer is working againest you.before you hire this woman don't do it she has misconduct for not doing here job read it google her name under misconduct
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22 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Wilkinson to represent me in a disputed probate case. He failed to take actions I directed him to take ,and instead spent an inordinate amount of time on insignificant issues, resulting in unnecessary hourly charges for him and the opposing attorney. He failed to present pertinent evidence about appeals court rulings on the ownership of a co-owned bank checking account, resulting in me losing over $14,000. His explanation for refusing to file one motion I directed him to file was that he had other cases before the same judge and was not going to file anything on my behalf that would make the judge angry. He then filed a motion to withdraw, leaving me without representation during a critical phase of the hearings.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Adoption Lawyer Can Do for You
An adoption lawyer specializes in navigating the legal complexities of the adoption process, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved - the adoptive parents, birth parents, and the child - are protected. They assist families through the different types of adoption, such as domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, and private adoptions. Adoption lawyers ensure that the adoption process complies with state, federal, and international laws, and handle any legal issues that may arise during the process, such as terminating parental rights, conducting home studies, and finalizing the adoption.
If you're looking to adopt or if you're a birth parent considering placing your child for adoption, an adoption lawyer can guide you through the legal requirements and ensure the process goes smoothly.
When Should I Hire an Adoption Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an adoption lawyer in the following situations:
- Private or independent adoption: If you’re adopting a child directly from the birth parents without the involvement of an adoption agency, a lawyer is essential to draft and review all legal documents, including consent forms and parental rights termination agreements.
- Foster care adoption: If you’re adopting a child from foster care, a lawyer can help navigate the legal process, ensure the child’s eligibility for adoption, and represent you in court to finalize the adoption.
- Stepparent or relative adoption: If you’re adopting a stepchild or a relative, a lawyer can assist in terminating the parental rights of the biological parent and ensure the adoption is completed legally and efficiently.
- International adoption: International adoptions are complex, involving multiple layers of laws from the U.S. and the child’s birth country. A lawyer can help navigate immigration requirements and ensure compliance with international treaties like the Hague Convention.
- Contested adoptions: If a birth parent changes their mind about the adoption or there is a dispute over parental rights, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure that the adoption proceeds legally.
- Adoption for same-sex couples: If you're a same-sex couple looking to adopt, a lawyer can help ensure that your adoption complies with state laws and that both parents have equal legal rights to the child.
- Birth parent representation: If you’re a birth parent considering adoption, a lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, help you understand the legal implications of terminating parental rights, and ensure that your decision is legally sound.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help avoid legal complications and ensure that the adoption is legally finalized as smoothly as possible.
What Does an Adoption Lawyer Do?
An adoption lawyer provides a variety of legal services, ensuring that the adoption process is completed in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing legal paperwork: Adoption lawyers handle all the necessary paperwork, including petitions to terminate parental rights, consent forms, and final adoption decrees. They ensure that the adoption is in line with state, federal, and international laws.
- Conducting home studies: Some adoptions require a home study to evaluate the prospective adoptive family. While a social worker usually conducts the study, a lawyer can ensure that the process complies with legal requirements and that the report is submitted correctly.
- Terminating parental rights: Lawyers assist in terminating the legal rights of the biological parents, either voluntarily through signed consent or involuntarily through court proceedings if necessary.
- Representing clients in court: Adoption lawyers represent adoptive parents, birth parents, or other parties in court hearings to finalize the adoption or resolve disputes.
- Navigating international adoption laws: For international adoptions, a lawyer helps ensure that all legal requirements, both in the U.S. and the child’s home country, are met, including securing the child’s visa and citizenship.
- Providing legal advice: Adoption lawyers guide clients through each step of the adoption process, advising them on their rights and obligations, as well as any potential legal issues that may arise.
- Drafting post-adoption agreements: In some cases, especially open adoptions, a lawyer can help draft post-adoption agreements that specify the level of contact between the adoptive and birth parents.
How Are Adoption Lawyers Paid?
Adoption lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the adoption and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many adoption lawyers charge a flat fee for handling the entire adoption process. This is common for straightforward adoptions, such as stepparent or foster care adoptions, where the legal work is relatively predictable.
- Hourly rate: For more complex adoptions, such as contested or international adoptions, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: In cases where the adoption process may take longer or involve more legal work (e.g., termination of parental rights or court disputes), a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, so you understand the total cost of the adoption and any additional expenses that may arise during the process.
How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an adoption lawyer depends on the type of adoption and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:
- Stepparent or relative adoption: Legal fees for these types of adoptions typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on whether the adoption is contested or requires a court hearing.
- Domestic private adoption: The legal fees for a private adoption usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, including drafting documents, terminating parental rights, and finalizing the adoption in court.
- International adoption: International adoptions are generally more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the adoption and the child’s country of origin.
- Contested adoption: If the adoption is contested and involves court disputes, legal fees may range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the court proceedings.
In addition to lawyer fees, adoptive parents should also be aware of additional costs such as court filing fees, home study fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
Top Questions to Ask an Adoption Lawyer
Before hiring an adoption lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with adoptions?
Ensure the lawyer has experience with the specific type of adoption you’re pursuing, whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, or stepparent adoption. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or hourly rate and ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in your adoption. -
What are the legal requirements for my adoption?
Ask the lawyer to explain the legal steps involved in your adoption and any specific requirements that may apply to your case, such as home studies or parental consent. -
How long will the adoption process take?
Adoption timelines can vary depending on the type of adoption, so ask the lawyer for an estimate of how long the process will take, including any potential delays. -
What are the common challenges in adoption cases?
Ask about any potential legal challenges that could arise during the adoption process and how the lawyer plans to address them. -
Will I need to go to court?
Depending on the adoption, you may need to attend court hearings. Ask the lawyer whether your presence will be required and what to expect during these hearings. -
Can you help with post-adoption issues?
Ask the lawyer if they can assist with any post-adoption issues, such as obtaining the child’s birth certificate, finalizing the child’s U.S. citizenship (for international adoptions), or drafting post-adoption contact agreements.
How to Check the Credibility of an Adoption Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable adoption lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions on their record.
- Look for adoption experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in adoption law and have experience handling cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on adoption cases.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for lawyers who are members of adoption-focused organizations like the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys (AAAA), which can indicate their expertise in this field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with an adoption lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Information about the child and birth parents: Provide any available information about the child you’re adopting (e.g., age, country of origin, current living situation) and the birth parents, if applicable.
- Adoption preferences: Be clear about the type of adoption you’re pursuing - whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, or private - and discuss any preferences you have regarding the child’s age, background, or special needs.
- Legal documents (if applicable): If you’ve already begun the adoption process or have signed any agreements, bring copies of all relevant legal documents, such as consent forms or agency agreements.
- Questions about the adoption process: Prepare a list of questions about the legal steps involved in your adoption, potential timelines, and any concerns you may have about the process.
- Financial considerations: Be ready to discuss your budget for legal fees and any additional costs, such as home studies, court fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for your adoption journey.
