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21 May, 2023 by Melissa miller
Corinne is professional, dedicated, and patient. She took on my case after a few hearings had already been held, and quickly got up to speed for the final pre-trial hearings. She then won my trial in front of the magistrate, the appeal to the judge, and then the appeal to the 10th District Appeals Court! She is very experienced and knowledgeable, and she always answers my questions and explains anything I do not know or understand about the case and the process.
Corinne has always been honest about her expectations for the magistrate or judge, and the pros and cons of the case – but she is also kind and understanding about my perspective. She really cares about clients, and it shows in everything she does.
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08 Feb, 2023 by Bhai yadhap
Corinne N. Ryan is terriable at the court appointment. My sister had three court dates and ever after reminding her in advance, she still missed all the date. If I were you, I would triple think before I ask her to represent me as a client.
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10 Jun, 2022 by Marcella c
Corinne has been by far a horrible experience. My first time ever needing an attorney and I hope to never need one again if this is the experience. Originally she presented herself to be someone who genuinely wanted to help me but turned out being someone who most likely just wanted the $2500 retainer. She was never available for me when she said she would be. She never kept her word. She had an excuse for every mess up. She missed my court hearing. This was all in just a about a little over a month time frame of me hiring her. I would not ever recommend to anyone. Five months later she has yet to withdraw herself from my case and stopped communicating with me as well. She does not even deserve one star honestly 😢
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24 May, 2024 by Anna m messer
20 May, 2020 by Jessica rister
Susan made our step parent adoption painless and simple. When I reached out to her a year and a half after the adoption was completed because the biological parent came forward, after years of no contact, and began causing duress for our family, Susan jumped into action and eased all of our legal fears quickly. She is my hero!
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03 Sep, 2019 by Dj bibart
Susan is a War Horse in the adoption field.
We have retained her twice!
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04 May, 2021 by Rcswan83
I used Brenden for our wills and estate plans, as well as forming an LLC for some rental properties. Not only was he fast and easy to work with but he made the process fun (if you have ever done a will you know how somber the topic can be). I highly recommend him.
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06 Feb, 2020 by Davon tirado
09 Apr, 2019 by Teresa
Elaine was a fantastic lawyer in my dissolution! She was professional, knowledgable and compassionate. I always could reach her or her legal assistant, Mona, who was just as helpful. I highly recommend Elaine and believe you'd be getting one of the best attorneys in town!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Danny craig
26 Aug, 2024 by Linda messina
My Deceased husband has been a client for 15+ years at Kelley Ferraro. Over the years I have dealt with many professional employees from attorneys to secretaries to probate, etc. I have two employees that have stood out over the years one being Bidea Kelly. I met Bidea through a business that I had had and she had turned me on to Kelley Ferraro. At that time she worked in probate and always was very personal. Bidea would give you as much information as she could or turn you on to another employee that would be able to answer your questions. The other employee is Valerie, the settlement coordinator. sometimes in a large law firm It's almost the luck of the draw what employee you get to speak to and for the last eight months I have been blessed to get Valerie. When speaking with her whether it's a question or she calls to give me information it's almost like she takes it personal as if she understands what I'm going through. I have gotten more information from Valerie in eight months then I have in the 15 years that I've been dealing With this law firm. There is much protocol / paperwork dealing with a lawsuit, as well as different departments. I always felt in the last 14 years that my case had been Unintentionally lost in the shuffle. NOT with Valerie, she knows exactly what chain the protocol has to take before a settlement and never hesitates to explain why a settlement would take as long as it does! Valerie has worked very hard on my case and I'm sure she does this for other clients as well. Of all the employees I have come in contact with I feel confident in saying Valerie enjoys her job and takes pride in being the best she can be for Kelley Ferraro !! She's a keeper!!!
Thank you , Linda Messina
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09 Jul, 2024 by Pamela poindexter
05 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Do not get her she's horrible she portrays herself as something that she's not
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06 Dec, 2019 by Betsy
My case was unique in Ohio. As a WA state grandma I was seeking visitation for my granddaughter. I chose Virginia through the internet. Always Virginia was very professional and very thorough. She mostly answered the phone herself and kept me on track; she was always available and sometimes with the three hour difference in time it was difficult for both of us. If she couldn't reach me then she would email promptly. I ended up stepping down from the case; knowing that we would most likely win; however the situation itself became a no-win situation. As in the beginning so was the ending, an honest, forthright attorney. I was never sorry that I chose Virginia to guide me through this journey. Thank you.
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29 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Worst experience I have ever had with an attorney. I wish others had warned me. Was just trying to get child support and settled because I couldn't deal with her anymore.
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29 Apr, 2023 by Danielle riddle
This “judge” is completely incompetent, corrupt and backwards. He signed off on an official Judgement Entry document with false material information and when confronted didn’t even acknowledge such. Luckily things like this the Supreme Court will take care of
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02 Feb, 2020 by Therapy range
Highly recommend......
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23 Oct, 2019 by Joe manfredi
Very helpful
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22 Jun, 2023 by Monique
Attorney Brown helped me through a very difficult time in my life and she did so with compassion and a wealth of knowledge. Her staff is amazing and always helpful and willing to answer my questions.
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06 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Absolutely THE most incompetent lawyer I've ever encountered. The most unprofessional law office I've ever encountered. Due to a family member being a vexatious litigator, I've been forced to become familiar with many aspects of civil law. Hand to God I could have represented my son better in his divorce/custody case than Kristin Brown did. Her lack of knowledge of law pales in the comparison of her unsympathetic demenaor. One would think someone working in family law would posess some compassion, that is not the case here. Specifics of my encounter are not important to leave this review, the point of a review is to let the general public know if my experience was positive or negative and if I would reccomend her. My encounter with this law office has been one of the most negative experiences of my families life and I %1000 suggest you seek representation anywhere BUT HERE.
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10 Jun, 2022 by Wes
We had to pay 300 for consultation then 5000$ after not speaking to anyone for over a month we finally called in and they forgot our case! Who does that? The cleo website they use didn’t even have our correct email after we wrote it down! No call backs we called several times the attorney never called us back now it’s been several weeks after we had to go to court house and track down our own paperwork the attorney constantly lied to us saying paperwork wasn’t in or they couldn’t find person to serve them they were waiting for court house blah blah blah. We are also filing a grievance against her with the Ohio attorney magistrate board. They are trash would not give her a dime! Still waiting on refund after weeks of being withdrawn from our case and it better be substantial because we had to to do all the work. I will be filing complaints and reviewing this business everywhere I can and with everyone I come into contact with
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01 Feb, 2023 by Alex
I have been working with Atty. Saull for going on 9 years. I never go in to court doubting her knowledge or abilities. Phone and office visits happen for updates, communication is fairly easy, and if you aren’t sure what something means, she gladly informs. Each time working with her, the problem is solved with the most positive outcome. I would, and do, 100% recommend Kelle.
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03 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
She didn't listen, didn't care and just wanted to finish it up. Worst experience ever. She didn't communicate and just swooped in to finish up the case after 2 years of work. She didn't care about my child or the situation. She probably doesn't even know my kids name. She doesn't know how to talk to someone unless its condescending.
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13 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Had an appointment set up to speak with this attorney only to be called two hours prior to appointment, with appointment set up for days before Appointment time, telling him that there was a conflict of interest. I don’t feel this was very professional nor did they do their due diligence if there was a conflict and the days prior before the appointment time!
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15 Mar, 2024 by Randy
I live out of state and needed an attorney in Brown County. After a little research I contacted Mr. Walker through his website. WIthin minutes I had a response and hired him. I had to contact him a couple of times during the process and he was always available. He did a great job for me and I would highly recommend him.
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23 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Went to see him and he told me he would take the case and said he could easily get what we asked for , after he got his money he quit, only would talk to me a few days before going to court, let the other Attorney (not ours) do all the work and even write up the papers! Lost the case, then refused to take a call, or do nothing in return! Worst Attorney out there, do not waste your money on him..!
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07 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Went through a divorce of 18 years! I felt he did not do anything that he said he would do! I ended up having to sell the house! He said money that was given to help with the house was a gift! I took paperwork in showing the x cashed my IRS check. I ended up having to paying everything back. After the divorce the title never got signed over. I made numerous calls, left messages and he had yet to contact me. If you want a attorney to fight for you keep searching.
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14 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
If you want a lawyer that will fight hard for what is RIGHT. He will make sure the TRUTH is revealed. He is easy to talk to, very down to earth and has a lot of experience in Stark County. He knows Stark County. Divorce, Dissolution, Custody, 3rd Party Custody, Visitation. I hired someone prior to Jason and wish I would have found him first. If you want a NO DRAMA lawyer that is worth the amount of $ you will pay and he will fight for you and put you at ease in the court room that is Jason.
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20 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Jason is a humble dedicated attorney working hard for local families. He makes it a point to not only resolve issues but work them to the best of his clients favor and always fair. I had dealt with other local attorneys and while he didn't have to put me first he did. I know I can count on him without hesitation.
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24 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Me Reese represented me in my divorce My ex-wife's retirement was never taken into account when the division of assets was written up. When the order came out splitting my retirement 50/50 I spoke with Jason. He agreed there was an error and was going to look into it . After six months of trying to get a hold of him again I had to turn to another attorney. Please don't use him!!
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10 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
We had a horrible experience with Carie. Our teen son was questioned privately with the judge and our attorney Carie. She asked him if he understood his biological siblings would no longer be his siblings, made him consent that this is what he wanted, asked if he understood his previous identity would no longer exist like his mom was never his mom. After he had a panick attack they made him come back in the court room and finish the interrogation. It was a horrible day and she was a horrible advocate.
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10 Mar, 2011 by Ray
We've used Carie for three adoptions and have always found her to be professional, caring and responsive. She has gone over and beyond in two cases that were complicated and we were glad to have her guidance. We'd recommend her, without reservation.
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06 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Totally unresponsive and lacking knowledge of the law. All I got in reply to inquires about my case were "we'll let you know when we have something" or excuses like vacations and "they keep missing each other".
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18 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
She always was there for me in a crisis and there are a lot of them in divorces. Returned phone calls, filed things I needed just overall the best.
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08 Oct, 2021 by Jose saucedo
I would recommend him ,very professional he help me with QDRO even this is long process ,he got it done so fast definitely will hire him again .
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17 Sep, 2021 by Gary blackford
Ruggles Law Office did an outstanding job providing counsel and managing the details of my father's estate. The law firm created the legal documents needed to simplify matters prior to my father's passing, then provided outstanding service managing though the process after his passing. The law firm provided sound guidance and counsel, kept the lines of communication open and me informed, and managed well the real-estate matters and a few items that needed Probate Court approval and orders. It was a pleasure to work with Mr. Ruggles and his law firm on my father's estate, and I would highly recommend this law firm for your legal needs.
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07 Jul, 2021 by Holly byler
I called to ask a simple question he was the one doing all the questioning was very rude to me said my problem is I don’t think I should have to pay for anything even though I don’t feel I should have to pay for a question. I asked for his name and he hung up on me. It is no wonder they have such little stars for the reviews. If I am going to pay for an attorney again you best believe that they are going to be the ones who deserve the money.
Update: To the responder The conversation was completely different then described. I did not say others refused to answer my question. I said that they told me i had to contact an attorney in the area that my divorce took place. No i do not feel it is right to make someone pay to get a simple question answered after already paying thousands of dollars for a divorce. I was only told that you did not have time to continue the conversation AFTER i made the comment that all the questions you had been asking was taking longer then me getting the answer to mine. so time was clearly not the issue. I do not write reviews to get back at someone. I write reviews when i feel the unprofessional or professional behavior deserves recognition and in this case your unprofessionalism deserves just that. Tone is about 90% of a conversation. I will not say mine was perfect but as you are the business and i am not you should have been less rude and if not willing to help apologizing for an inconvenience and maybe recommending me to someone or at least telling me details of what it would take to have this question answered through your company.
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20 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I contacted Rosemary on a Friday and she got back with me a few goes later via email. I didn't get a chance to speak with her that day (busy day), but she contact me via phone that Monday morning. Although I didn't get a chance to use her services she seemed very prompt and helpful.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Sharon
He is a fraud. Worst lawyer ever! Rude, nasty and unprofessional!!! He will not represent you as he says he will. Save your time and money and find a good attorney!
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24 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Like most lawyers, initially told me everything I wanted to hear, then would tell me that I was hurting my own case over extremely trivial events … because he was softening me up to settle and not go to trial.
A predator, preying on his clients emotions, naïveté and fear in order to take as much money as possible while doing as little as possible and minimizing risk of a loss going on his official record by sabotaging my case in order to avoid trial and push towards a settlement with me having less and less leverage the longer he was my lawyer.
I did far better representing myself at a tiny fraction of the cost.
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11 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I was in shock and in a bad place financially and emotionally as I entered a new divorce, and Mr Palmquist was recommended to me from a friend, as I was told that he would fight for me and be my advocate. Needless to say, Jim came through plus some. He was attentive to my wants, reminded me of my needs, and with his help we were able to position ourselves into an upper hand for a beautiful settlement that fell heavily in my favor. I couldn't have imagined a better outcome or a more phenomenal attorney. When he is busy , Rebecca, his co-council, was always available to ensure that I was taken care of. His staff is efficient and never missed a call I made, and they were friendly and aware of my constant "millennium generation" mentality of impatience . They never showed annoyance or complained, even on my bad days. Jim would come in for me on weekends and evenings. He would text me to check on me, and remind me that I was in good hands. He and his team had my back. I felt strong walking into court with Jim by my side. Especially if you are in Medina court, you would be exceptionally wise to use Palmquist law. He is what a laywer should be, and sets the bar for all other attorneys in the area. I was positioned in a way where my X had a financial gain due to his income and my lack thereof, however despite he and his legal teams attempts, no one messed with me because they were in turn messing with Jim. It goes to show that money is meaningless unless your attorney knows what he is doing. I owe him my sanity. Jim and his team were the only support I had in Medina, and that was all I needed. Highly Highly recommended any day of the week, and twice on Sundays.
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30 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Doesn't give two caps about your case will do everything opposite of what you want used him a few months ago and super disappointed definitely not getting my 500 back
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25 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I wish I had done more research, felt like he was working for everyone but me. Gave no guidance, was rude at every meeting, talked down to me, did not fight for anything I wanted, only advice he gave was to end my divorce case and return to the relationship. Over charged for what he did and under delivered.
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13 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Absolutely no help at all and very rude when trying to speak with him regarding your case. This man does not care about helping you! I'd give 0 stars if I could
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22 Aug, 2024 by Joe
She recently had a mental health episode and defecated on all over the courtroom, during a hearing.
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24 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
This attorney represented my sons father in court and then was released. The man went to court and told the magistrate he never received the documents that were sent to her. I have proof she received them.
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29 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Hired her at this fancy over priced law firm, paid her way too much money for her to only waste time and money. I thought she might be able to handle my very difficult case ( she assured me she was up for the task) but it turns out she was no match for my ex nor his lawyer. She crumbled and failed miserably. She was flustered during depositions, lost and often appeared clueless or unprepared in court and often got into petty email wars with the opposing counsel. She was fired after the case went no where. She should look into another career. She’s just not cut out for this.
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23 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney, and found she did not thoroughly examine the case. Goes on what she wants to think, instead of facts. Lacks in empathy and compassion. Would not suggest in hiring her.
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20 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
She does not care about details or the facts of circumstances. A common sense approach to finding solutions is nonexistent. You will waste money hiring her to try and resolve any family law issues.
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12 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Gardner may be a good attorney in court, but she has yet to reply to a phone call. I consulted with her on my case. She was very polite. She scheduled a time to meet with me again, and cancelled. I called to reschedule, left a message and she did not return my call. She has been paid lots of money and does not have the courtesy to return my call ?
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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.
