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28 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Anderson worked with us to set up a life trust and living will. He gave us his email address if we had questions, which he responded to. He followed up with us after we had paid him making sure we had done everything we were suppose to on our trust. He was great. Very pleasant.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Dale
My wife and I have putting off getting our wills done for a while. After the holidays, we finally decided to get it done. Mr. Anderson asked us many questions, listened to our concerns, and drew up the paperwork to get it done. It was surprisingly painless. I would highly recommend Zach Anderson.
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19 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Jeremy Thomas was a great lawyer for my separation. From the initial consultation, he was always responsive, interested, and knowledgeable. He treated me with respect and helped me with all of my concerns with my separation. He even wrote a really good legal doc that got my ex to drop some of his crazy demands. I would recommend Jeremy without a doubt!
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01 May, 2020 by Todd
After years of battling with my ex over a piece of property and being ignored, I had Mr. Thomas draft a letter demanding the issue be settled. The letter was firm but diplomatic, and within a day I was contacted by my ex and reached a settlement. Great job!
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10 Oct, 2016 by Scott
We have had the opportunity to adopt again in our home state since using Mr. Brodowski years ago in a previous adoption. Our middle child was adopted out of Alabama and our most recent Tennessee. We hired Mr. Brodowski after our Alabama adoption was contested 16 years ago. He was compassionate, extremely accessible all hours. Very thourough and professional. We owe the privilege of having been able to raise our 16 year old to these people. Our current experience in Tennessee is still ongoing, but the experience is no where close. If you want to adopt a child, you cannot go wrong with Micheal and his legal staff.
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25 Apr, 2017 by Claudinette
I sought the services of Attorney Williams. I was very pleased with the service as well as the professionalism of her as well as staff. She provided wills, POA (financial and medical) as well living wills.
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16 Mar, 2020 by Howard
Attorney Green recently closed a law suite for me. Attorney Green is a compassionate, professional lawyer with integrity, with a very friendly capable staff who works tireless to insure the client receives all entitled within the law. Without hesitation I will recommend her to anyone looking for a well equipped attorney.
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24 Oct, 2019 by Toni
Hired her for domestic violence case & she delivered. She fast & very effective. She got my case dropped down to probation.
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04 Dec, 2019 by Linda
Mr. Edmondson handled a serious car wreck for me and did an awesome job. From the very beginning he was very knowledgeable and helped me understand every single part of the process and I was very pleased with the money he was able to get for me.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Laura
Eric Heath Johnson was great! He kept me updated on what was going on and would always answer any questions I had promptly. I highly recommend him for any services you many need!
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23 Jul, 2023 by Melissa giles
My MIL needed an updated will and asked us to go with her. We were really impressed with Mr. Knight, as he really took his time with us. He made sure she got what she wanted down on paper and had an answer for every question we could think up. I especially appreciated how he made a point to speak to her alone so he could be sure she was under absolutely no duress. He is fair, honest, knowledgeable, and affordable! In short, everything we were hoping for.
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19 Aug, 2022 by Anthony goodwin
He did me right
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15 Apr, 2022 by Jasper hicks
25 May, 2022 by Chelsi lomas
27 Feb, 2020 by Loucrita batton
She is the best I have ever had. She puts personal care into your case if she believes in you. Even went so far as come to get me for court when I had no transportation anymore. She gives the best advice to help you help yourself during process. Sweetest and kindest but hard as a steel door in court. Proud to have had the chance to have Erin stand by me when I needed someone like her and her knowledge to be there.
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09 Jan, 2019 by Tammy smith
Erin is Amazing! She is professional but personable. She doesnt treat her clients like a paycheck she treats them like people she cares about. She really knows her stuff
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07 Nov, 2022 by Brittany chavarria
Such sweet people at this firm....
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04 Nov, 2021 by Mary e. grubbs
Ms. Hall saw us when we had no appointment. We appreciate that so much, and we have confidence that she is going to represent us well. She has been a very big help. Her new location is convenient, and the area is nice.
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30 Nov, 2024 by Ryan j
29 Jul, 2024 by Vlad avoronski
15 Jun, 2023 by Wilson gregory
Good lawyer.
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24 Jun, 2021 by Jessica
Mr. Lagman was hired to solve a custody case. He did a great job all the forms, responses, motions were filed on time and promptly. He represented me at the court with great experience and professionalism. He is available for communication and his legal rates are fair priced. He managed my case with grace. Recommend this lawyer.
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08 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I first hired Mr. Lagman back in 2002-2004 I believe to handle a Probate case. Well I got into my feelings and did an awful thing just blaming everyone. But he did a great job on my case. He handled my case with the utmost respect and dignity. He filed and answered all Motions in a timely matter. He filed motions that were needed to win my case. Things didn't move as fast as I wanted to because during that time I didn't understand that cases like the one I had do take time so I ended up discharging him which was a big mistake. Henry Lagman is a good man as well as an Attorney.
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09 Apr, 2019 by Trey
Henry knows the law and knew my rights. I was impressed with his courtroom performance and so was the jury. NOT QUILTY!!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Karen arrington
When I tell you that Loftin Loftin and May are the best attorneys in town. Very helpful with needs of their customers. My experience with law firm is phenomenal. I would recommend any day. They receiving my 5 stars for this review.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Sfmviper
I don’t even know how to begin this message, but I’m just going to say this… Patrick Loftin Is a criminal defense attorney at this law firm I had been working with this firm since July 2023 and yet Patrick Loftin found me guilty in 2024 on a case in which his daughter-in-law said my case was very strong and I shouldn’t even have a PFA on me to begin with. There was a continuation for a criminal hearing, and somehow my evidence never came up in the situation. Not only do I feel like my attorney Jon Riley Was corrupt and in on some kind of scheme just to screw me over, but I feel like this attorney/judge has some sort of confirmation bias.. god forbid you’re the only one that tells the truth and has integrity. Apparently he prefers being lied to instead. I am highly disappointed in the fact that Patrick Loftin even did what he did to myself and my six-year-old daughter. The day, Patrick Loftin Found me guilty made me lose 100% faith in every justice system in The state of Alabama.. Apparently, it takes you having to say something about there being a conflict of interest to the judge, rather than the judge and or your attorney that already knew, to get it brought it up. My rights were absolutely stomped on, and I was punished far more than I ever should have been seen that this is my first violation in my entire life ever of 32 years.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Chrissy brown
3.5
8 Reviews
4.6
103 Reviews
02 Jul, 2024 by Sandra scott
27 Apr, 2024 by Vicky connolly
She is a class A attorney who does 150 % for her clients and is very determined to give her all!!!!!!
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26 Apr, 2024 by Shaylon
Easy to work with, very knowledgeable and professional,
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.2
10 Reviews
22 Mar, 2024 by John pace
22 Mar, 2024 by N miller
Ms. Fann and J.R. were so professional and helpful. They were detailed and kept my best interest at heart throughout the entire process of my case. In the end, we got what we wanted and I couldn't be happier. You will not regret using Ms. Fann.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Jeremy marlowe
Wonderful group!!
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10 Apr, 2018 by Elizabeth
I hired Maureen in a custody matter and she was wonderful to work with. She was highly Knowledgeable in the area of family law and extremely professional. Maureen was able to work out an ideal settlement with opposing counsel. I would highly recommend Maureen.
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07 Sep, 2016 by Jenny
I have consulted with Maureen Cooper for two different issues related to divorce and alimony . In the past , the thought of consulting with any attorney was one associated with fear and dread . I have had contact with lawyers in the past who had no genuine desire to help me quickly resolve a problem or to provide straight answers . I had never consulted with an attorney who genuinely wanted to earn the respect and trust of others as much as he wanted to take advantage of my problem for his own profit .
Ms. Cooper is a rare gem because she is competent , straight forward , not manipulative and earnest in her desire to assist people and not exploit their problems to advance herself in an unfair way . She is a good person , and if someone needs an attorney they can trust who will not take advantage of them , she is the first person to call . I hold her in high esteem and feel thankful to know an attorney of her caliber in competence and human decency .
I asked another attorney who was too busy to consult with me for a name of an honest and capable lawyer . She spoke highly of Maureen , and I must agree she was correct in her assessment of Maureen Cooper.
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29 Apr, 2016 by Denise
I had a very difficult Injury case, that I didn't think could be won, but Mrs. Cooper prevailed without breaking a sweat! Also, she and her staff are beyond kind and caring. They seemed to be truly concerned with my dilemma!
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20 Sep, 2023 by Marilyn
Pete is an outstanding attorney who is extremely knowledgeable, professional and wise in handling legal matters. This law Firm has years of experience and will navigate your case to success and is highly recommended. Some people were born to be who they are and Pete is born to be a Great Attorney. Five Stars all day long.
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23 Jul, 2016 by Jackie
Peter helped me with my divorce a couple years ago. He made sure I was compensated for my things I lost during my separation and I continued to get child support for my daughter. Thank you Peter for your help!
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06 Feb, 2025 by Messiah nicholas
26 Jan, 2025 by Rpau red
Great service,wish I could have done more, pay to play. Discrimination is not to be excused at any cost.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Leland frederick
Mr. Zwilling approaches the practice with a high degree of professionalism.
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12 Jun, 2021 by Susan
I have been very impressed with Mickey’s knowledge and professionalism. He is usually available when I call with questions or returns my call in a reasonable time.
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08 Jan, 2024 by Kimberly
Mr. Bellucci is an excellent attorney who listens ands pays attention to your case and needs. He specializes in certain aspects of law but is most certainly eager to share knowledge and is an honest, professional, worked from the ground up and obtained success.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Ilari filpponen
Mr. Stoves was extremely professional, and knowledgeable, and always went the extra mile to support me in my case. He basically almost made the impossible to possible. I am very grateful and satisfied of his work. Therefore, I highly recommend him to anyone seeking legal assistance in Alabama.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Dana stegall
I contacted David Thomas at Thomas Family Law when I found myself unable to find an attorney willing to help me with my child support issue. Attorney Thomas personally answered the phone when I called and immediately put me at ease by agreeing to take on my case. His fee was extremely reasonable, his communication outstanding and within 48 hours, my paperwork had been submitted to, and signed off by the judge. This recommendation and review comes with my utmost gratitude to David Thomas and the Thomas Family Law Firm.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Scott dunn
David Thomas is able to be an incredibly knowledgeable, effective, and communicative attorney, while still staying both personable and professional.
He was able to navigate me through my legal issues, explaining everything to me along the way in a manner that made sense.
David is a credit to his profession and he will be my first call in any legal situation I may find myself in going forward.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Vaneishia carpenter
Awesome bunch of people who know their craft! If you need a lawyer definitely call and find out if Steve can help he's a great person who does all he can to get the job done.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Teaisha dalis
Please read reviews before letting attorneys represent you. Mr. Earle handled our situation very unprofessional by not responding, returning phone call, no updates on the case, and not answering text messages. I would not recommend this attorney.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jenero sigler
26 Nov, 2024 by Denver hughes
Ashley was absolutely amazing. She handled my case with such confidence and professionalism. Her and her paralegals were the best! Would recommend her to anybody! And will use her again if I ever need legal representation. This was a custody case involving my kids and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. If you’re needing representation for custody issues, look no further!
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11 Oct, 2024 by John rogers
05 Oct, 2024 by Chris murphy
Over the last couple of years the team at Mezrano has been helping me try to reach a settlement. We were finally able to reach it recently and they made the process almost completely hands free for me and kept me updated on the progress regularly. They were an absolute joy to work with and I would recommend working with them to anyone!
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23 May, 2024 by Sharon camp
This firm did an outstanding job representing me! Thanks so much for the awesome effort and following through with the settlement!
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20 Apr, 2024 by Gwen hulsey
05 Apr, 2024 by Dangelo whaley
02 May, 2024 by Judy smith
I would recommend Danny to anyone he for sure knows what he's doing when it comes to eviction.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Barbara jackson
Very unprofessional hung up the telephone on me. What lawyer writes a will and don’t keep a copy! Wrote my mom’s will and the whole thing has been a hot mess. He dropped the ball big time! He listened to all the lies my step sister told about me never once did he call to verify her statements. My stepsister got rid of all the furniture from my mom’s house and didn’t have an estate sale. This wanna be lawyer knew about it and did nothing. When I called his office to ask questions is when he hung up the phone on me. That was very unprofessional and unnecessary! His advice to me was hire and attorney. I live in Atlanta Georgia my mom lived in Adamsville Alabama. I’m told the office doesn’t even look like a law office. Beware Alabama save your money!!!!!!! Truly he deserves no stars!
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30 Sep, 2023 by Debrah morton
This attorneys office showed opened online. But was not open when I drove there to drop off paperwork. They didn't answer the phone nor have an voice mail or answering service to answer the calls. Never heard of an attorney that didn't want to answer your call to try and get the CASE!!!.... lol maybe they were out chasing
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31 Aug, 2018 by Caitlin
This is the worst lawyer I have ever come into contact with. I came to her based on these reviews, and wish I had looked elsewhere. On two separate occasions, she went to court knowing the other party had not been served. Why go to court when nothing can be accomplished unless you're simply trying to drain the retainer? It was hundreds of dollars wasted. I was also told by her that she would let me know whether I should come to court on another date. I emailed after not hearing anything weeks after and was told to come. I took off work, showed up, and she was not even there. Beyond all common courtesy, I was billed for the subsequent phone calls I made for showing up for no reason that amounted to less than 6 minutes. When I asked that they be removed, the immediate rebuttal was that they forgot $200 in fees on my invoice from months prior, but would be happy to remove the $50. I was also emailed someone else's extremely private DHR document instead of mine. Even after voicing my uneasiness to Wendy, I did not receive an apology. I have never received an apology for this unprofessionalism. I felt like a paycheck, not a valued client. The unethical treatment took an anxiety inducing situation and made it a complete nightmare. I hired her Dec 2017, and after $2,054 of legal fees, have gotten absolutely nothing accomplished.
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22 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Wendy for an uncontested divorce which unfortunately became contested. Wendy was great, patient and attentive. The documents drafted were top notch and I loved that they were sent to me to review each time a document was filed. I would definitely recommend Ms. Wendy.
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31 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Reese represented me in a child custody case in Jefferson County Family Court. She is very knowledgeable and experience in handling child custody matters. She was able to assist me in understanding the process and facilitate communication with DHR. Wendy was a strong advocate for me and I cannot thank her enough for the countless hours she spent working on my case. We spent numerous hours in court and I was able to watch lots of attorneys and I can say, without a doubt, that Wendy is one of the best. Do yourself a favor and hire her if you are seeking to regain custody of your children.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Kytara bradley
She supported and listened to me through the long legal process. She listened to my angry and sad venting moments. Real advice was given, although I didn't agree with it. I was prepared and knew what to expect once I entered the courtroom.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Carlee davis-parnell
She seemed nice enough. Although I feel robbed by paying 200 dollars just to hear that she didn't think I needed her. To be honest I felt judged and dismissed. Taking my money when she clearly didn't want to take this white girls case.
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29 Apr, 2024 by God did
Thank you so very much for all of the dedication and hard work that you’d given. Not only were you passionate but showed so much compassion for me and my children. There was a verse that brought me to you “ Jeremiah 29:11” and it did not disappoint. I’m very thankful for you your kind words and amazing hospitality. Again thank you so very much and please continue doing the great work that you’re doing.
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10 Nov, 2024 by Justin sisco
Very gifted and my friend for life
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21 Oct, 2024 by Lance mcclendon
21 Oct, 2024 by Glenda smith
She takes care of your legal problems in Marshall County. She’s the lawyer you need to call.!!! She means what she says and accomplish is what she says she can do. You can trust her.
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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.
