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01 Nov, 2024 by Jeremy smith
Abby was very helpful. Any questions I had were explained in a way that made them easy to understand. Most of our communication was through email and she replied within a reasonable time frame (usually within hours).
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16 Oct, 2024 by Wendy johnson
Kimberly and Tony were a fabulous team to work with. My former spouse was very difficult to work with and was consistently abusive to all of us. They were able to reign him in, tamp down his superfluous attitude, and create a financial portfolio that we could both use in the future. Cheers.
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15 Oct, 2024 by E nickell
01 Nov, 2024 by Jeremy smith
Abby was very helpful. Any questions I had were explained in a way that made them easy to understand. Most of our communication was through email and she replied within a reasonable time frame (usually within hours).
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16 Oct, 2024 by Wendy johnson
Kimberly and Tony were a fabulous team to work with. My former spouse was very difficult to work with and was consistently abusive to all of us. They were able to reign him in, tamp down his superfluous attitude, and create a financial portfolio that we could both use in the future. Cheers.
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15 Oct, 2024 by E nickell
01 Nov, 2024 by Jeremy smith
Abby was very helpful. Any questions I had were explained in a way that made them easy to understand. Most of our communication was through email and she replied within a reasonable time frame (usually within hours).
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16 Oct, 2024 by Wendy johnson
Kimberly and Tony were a fabulous team to work with. My former spouse was very difficult to work with and was consistently abusive to all of us. They were able to reign him in, tamp down his superfluous attitude, and create a financial portfolio that we could both use in the future. Cheers.
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15 Oct, 2024 by E nickell
16 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
We contacted Heimer Law after having a terrible experience with a different attorney. Justin walked us through step by step what we needed to do in order to terminate the previous attorney's contract and transfer the files to his office. We are SO GLAD we did! We can sleep at night knowing our adoption was ethical and care was given to ALL parties involved. Our experience with Heimer Law felt like a team effort instead of the coercion and shadiness we experienced with our previous attorney. Heimer Law even went above and beyond after our adoption was final to get our birth certificate corrected multiple times (we have tricky names which I guess the Arkansas Dept. of Health found hard to spell the first few tries). We can't say enough good things!
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08 Feb, 2021 by Marissa
We had a very complicated case, well three. He worked with us and explained everything in great detail. He made what was a very hard process seem so much easier. He treated us like part of his family. We were blessed to have him and his staff. We highly recommend him to anyone who is considering adoption. You won't regret it. Amazing just Amazing!
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12 Jan, 2021 by Kellie
Our family is forever grateful for Heimer Law. From the beginning we knew that Justin was an attorney we could trust with our adoption journey. He always gave suggestions, wisdom, protection, and compassion when we needed it. He helped fulfill our adoption ethically, always respecting the heart of our hearts and our birth mom. We are thankful the Heimer Law Firm Team is a part of our story!
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09 Sep, 2018 by David & lorie mcgeady
Top Flight attorney. Was recommended by University of Arkansas Law School professor to represent us against DHS for appeal hearing for our son. Was able to have ALJ decision overturned in district court setting a precedent to have services restored. Does his research, very well versed and excellent litigator. Exceptionally stand up guy and would highly recommend his services.
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06 Jun, 2018 by Jamie
Mr. Depper was kind but firm in what I would need to do to resolve my legal issues. The first face to face meeting his confidence was apparent and his knowledge of the system was strong. I was nervous and really did not think any lawyer would care to go the distance with my family.
Not only did Mr. Depper go the distance but he gave me sound advice, answered all my questions, calls, and messages regardless of how emotionally distraught or anxious I was. He is a very good listener and does his homework.
I thought at the beginning of my case there was no hope and I would be railroaded by the system. With Mr. Depper there was no chance of this happening. Even when I was ready to settle for anything just to get the case closed he was still fighting for us. I had a lot of work to do and he was very up front about my responsibilities. With each step he was encouraging, and supportive. He never once backed down. Throughout the case I kept telling myself what he had told me from the very beginning. "Your case depends on how many hoops they throw at you that you are willing to jump through...with a smile on your face". I would jump again. He was right. Even if they set them on fire he was there to put it out.
Strong, knowledgeable, supportive, and someone that has a good ethic. I feel privileged to have had him on my side. I was able to walk out with my chin up, and faith restored.
Thank you Mr. Depper
I could never have done this without you!
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02 May, 2018 by Donna
This summer I found myself in serious trouble and in need of legal help but had no idea how to find an attorney that would handle my type of problem. After searching and asking around, I stumbled onto the AVVO website. When I found Mr. Depper's page I noticed he had taken the time to answer more than 60 legal questions. I read his responses and I liked the way he answered people. He was very clear, to the point and helpful to those with inquiries. I contacted him via email through his website and he responded a few minutes later.
When I met him in person I found his demeanor matched the person depicted in the legal responses. I learned very quickly that I did not have to explain things in a hurry to him. He listened to everything I had to say and let me explain in my own way. He carefully looked through everything I had to show him asked questions for clarification and took a lot of notes. He explained the challenges that I would be facing and explained the general process of resolving my case. He answered all of my questions and when I didn't understand something he seemed to be happy to go over it again. When I walked out of his office that day I felt a tremendous relief. I felt like he had a thorough understanding of my situation and of me as an individual. I felt blessed to have a strong advocate with a solid plan.
We had three additional meetings and two phone conversations before my hearing took place. Mr. Depper stayed true to his initial character. He always answered all of my questions , he listened and did not rush me. He addressed every issue I raised by either telling me how he was handling it or making me understand why it was irrelevant. He never allowed our meetings to conclude without making certain I had no more questions. He always invited me to contact him if I had questions but that it was never necessary to contact him since he answered everything up front.
When it came time to go to court he met with me and explained how the hearing would proceed. On the morning of the hearing he spent a few minutes with me beforehand to make sure i was calm and did not have any questions or concerns. During the hearing I was a little in awe of him. He was very organized and well prepared. He systematically raised for consideration every issue we had concerns with. He kept everyone on topic including the opposing attorney. When the hearing was over he talked with me again. We briefly reviewed what transpired in the hearing and he let me know what to expect next. A few weeks later we learned that his defense was successful and there were no more steps to take.
I am very grateful to Mr. Depper for really hearing me, for taking my case and fighting for me. He is truly a blessing.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.2
5 Reviews
30 May, 2024 by Anonymous
After being in an adoption process for 2 years we were introduced to Vaughn and matched immediately. He we helpful in establishing communication between us and the birth mother and giving wisdom when needed. At the end of the process he helped us finalize with ease. He cares about his clients as well as the birth parents who are involved in the process.
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28 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
After being on the adoption journey for two years we matched with a birth family and met Vaughn. His wisdom and demeanor gave us a lot of comfort in this “confusing and overwhelming” process. Vaughn was extremely helpful during the birth and the days when we were waiting to be able to leave. He made it quick and seamless in our eyes even though there was a lot going on to make it happen.
Vaughn truly cares about all parties involved and seeks the best for them. We are so thankful to Vaughn for playing such a huge role in bringing our family together.
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26 Aug, 2023 by Joshua fornelli
Thanks to Vaughn we were able to adopt our baby boy. He is currently, six years later, helping us adopt a baby girl. Dedicated and thorough. What you need in an adoption lawyer is knowledge, ethics, and follow through. He delivers.
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14 Feb, 2025 by Andrea & chris parrish
06 Sep, 2024 by Amber
I recently had the privilege of working with James Hornsey during my divorce, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his exceptional representation. From the very beginning, it was clear that he had my best interests at heart, consistently demonstrating not only his remarkable legal expertise but also his genuine care for my well-being throughout this challenging process. His intelligence and deep knowledge of family law gave me confidence, while his unwavering support made me feel secure every step of the way. He was always available to answer my questions, offering thoughtful advice and solutions tailored to my unique situation.
What sets James apart is his ability to balance professionalism with compassion. He fought for me with determination and treated me with empathy, making sure I felt empowered and informed at all times. His dedication to my case made me feel like I had a true ally on my side. I highly recommend James to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy attorney—he will absolutely have your back from start to finish.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Kim
Jane helped me out with a domestic/child support issue. She was very thorough, took care of things quickly, and was very easy to work with. She's a great person to have in your corner!
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09 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Andrea Mccurdy did an amazing job handling my case! I am able to spend time with my family without facing the cage, I really do want to thank you for hard work and effort you have put into my case. I highly recommend anyone to give her a call and I know shell do her best to get the job done. Thank you once again Andrea!
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21 Jul, 2022 by Kyle
After searching and browsing the web and several days of reading reviews I believed I had finally found a lawyer to contact. Upon contacting Andrea and discussing my case with her I was reassured that this could all be resolved and I would be reunited with my children. Andrea was hired in approximately January 2022 in which I began to send all documentation supporting the facts that the mother of our children was willfully and against judges orders with-holding our children from me the father and for absolutely no good reason. Shortly here after communication with Andrea had began to lack. Lacking so much to the point of no communication for several weeks. At this time I reached out to her assistant Alex Fittin whom then informed me that she no longer works for this law firm but would reach out to her and let her know that I have been attempting to make contact. Several days later I received an email stating that she would make contact and I was again reassured that she was working on this matter and would be in touch as soon as something was founded. Again several days and weeks had passed with no communication. I began calling multiple times throughout the day in attempt to make contact via phone with no resolve. I then emailed to only get reply that she was on vacation and would be back in touch once she returned.Again several days passed and multiple phone calls and emails sent before receiving a brief phone call that she is contacting the mothers attorney in which I informed her I do not believe she has one at this time. Andrea said she was contacting her previous attorney as he (Andrew Hatfield) would still know how to reach her . July 1, 2022 I received an email stating that she had some documents drawn up and would be calling that following Tuesday to discuss with me. It is now July 21, 2022 several more phone calls and emails have been sent with no response and my church and wife have also been attempting to make contact none of which have heard back either. I feel I am back at square one bit with more distrust in lawyers as I have never felt so mislead and taken as I do now. This law firm unfortunately fits the profile that so many people already have the mindset and believe about lawyers and how they do people.
And if anyone doubts the above statement please Feel free to contact me via Facebook at Kyle Kuhn it’s picture of my wife, son and myself I will be glad to share the multiple attempts and much more.
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05 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Wonderful lawyer! She was able to help me and my family. She was always reachable. She was very knowledgeable and seemed really experienced.
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16 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
We hired Marti initially to facilitate an adoption with a potential birth mom. The birth mom didn't speak English, and during our first meeting, all the red flags went off for us. Marti didn't provide an interpreter, so we had no idea how the birth mom felt about us or what was happening. We later discovered that specific details Marti included in our contract were completely false, including the expected date of birth and gender of the child. We were frantic trying to correct the errors and make adjustments in time, as well as confirm the birth mom was even comfortable placing her child with us. We ended up firing Marti and hiring a new attorney, and we were very glad we did.
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02 Mar, 2018 by Jenny
I found her to be very honest and truthful. Her Integrity was a breath of fresh air. However she declined us as clients due to not being able to provide what we are asking for. I appreciate her integrity. It was a breath of fresh air even if she did not tell me what I wanted to hear. I appreciate her honesty.
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22 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Above all, our birth mom felt safe, comfortable and confident under this attorneys care. Marsha Woodruff was on top of the medical and legal needs for birth mom, baby and adoptive parents. I would recommend her to others.
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16 Jul, 2015 by Mary
I have used James for previous matters of mine and referred many of my friends and family members to him. He is an attorney that goes above and beyond to get the job done. He has never let me or anyone I know down. I highly recommend him to anyone and continue to do so whenever anyone asks me if I know a good attorney.
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13 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I have used James a couple of times for mostly paperwork agreement type things. I'm impressed with both his legal knowledge as well as understanding of human nature and how the real world works. I would not hesitate to recommend James for legal representation, especially if you need someone both aggressive and understanding. He gets it done.
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11 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
James Hornsey represented me in my divorce and he was extremely knowledgeable. I honestly would be very afraid to be on the team opposing him, since he is seriously tough as nails when it comes to knowing the law and defending your rights. I was amazed, just when I thought he had pulled out all of his cards in our case, he pulled out even more and it was just a wipeout for the other side and their lies and things they had pulled. I thank God I had his as my attorney or things would not have been so great for me since the other side was playing not-so-nice.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This attorney is horrible and does not have your kids in her best interest. She’s all about the money and taking sides without seeking truth on both sides. Between her, the other attorney and the judge….. it’s a fricking 3 ring circus! No justice whatsoever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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20 Feb, 2023 by Matthew henderson
After my marriage 3 months ago, I applied for a home loan, so that I and my wife could move to a better apartment, but I got a negative reply, which I was told was a result of my credit score. When I pulled my score it was below average. I had $12,000 student loan, some credit card debt, charge off and an eviction. PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST helped me erase all the above negative reports and boosted my score to excellent in less than 6 days. I’m recommending them to any one in need of credit assistance. Contact them via EMAIL:
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22 Jan, 2017 by Kris and sarah
Buffy always got back with us if we had any questions. She's very understanding and works hard to take care of your needs. Me and my wife had to take my ex back to court to get some things changed up with the custody of my children. I couldn't be more happier with the results. She worked on a payment plan for me and my wife. And she worked her tail off. If you need a good understanding caring attorney please call this woman. She was a blessing to my family.
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03 Jan, 2019 by To whom it may concern
Hired him for DWI, mistake number one. Never had time to call me. He got me a sorry plea deal. I don’t think he talked to DA until court which royalty screwed me. he is not a DWI lawyer avoid like the plague
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08 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Steven Kay's law firm to represent me in my divorce. Communication is severely lacking with this firm. I was apprised of several important facts pertaining to me case - after the fact- and only when I questioned things. I did not receive a bill for several months because - unbeknownst to me - the firm was in the process of updating it's accounting software. Instead of apprising me of that fact - I was slammed with a bill several months later - and an email - telling me all legal services would cease until I remitted payment in full PLUS an additional retainer fee. I was essentially penalized for the firm's lackadaisical ways of doing business. When I asked for them to work with me on a payment plan due to their lack of communication, I was essentially told that they only thing "lacking" was my ability to make payment. A friend of mine who is a local attorney has informed me that this firm has a terrible reputation in town - that - they are considered "stupid" by other law firms. Now I understand why. If I could do things differently, I would have retained another attorney. Do yourself a favor - avoid this law firm like the plague. They are solely interested in money, not providing quality services to their clients.
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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.
