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02 Mar, 2023 by Tori brock
An amazing team that will take care of you. I’m really happy they were able to help me with my case.
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19 Dec, 2022 by Christopher saleh
Integrity, professional, responsive and fair !! I could not give a higher recommendation for Rik Lovett. His ethical approach to a difficult job when you are dealing with the most trying of times was impeccable. He was always up-front in discussing the realities of divorce and constantly kept the ultimate goals of the case in focus. Rik's paralegals are also top-notch in assisting with your case. The fee structure was fair, and the expertise and experience Rik provides is invaluable. I found Rik extremely easy to communicate with. Look as much as you like, but you would be hard pressed to find his equal.
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18 Apr, 2022 by David dietrich
The complete team at Rik Lovett's are committed to bringing the best to the table. Helpful, friendly and straight to the point.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Arnold dargen
1st time and I’m highly uneducated in theses matters, this team helped me understand and didn’t discuss things with me as if I should know. Look forward to this group assisting me.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Benny lorie
I want to first and foremost can't express enough of my gratitude
Towards the amazing team at Riddle and Brantley. I was in a really bad car accident. And after trying to work with the insurance company with the at fault party and they weren't willing to help me. I honestly felt like it was the end of the road, and no one was going to help me.
Then I contacted this company and man old man. I can honestly say they came in the clutch. I'm blessed and grateful to my lawyer Daren Dawson and the exceptionally gifted an incredibly sweet patient Case Manager Kalena Tavares for their time and effort and assisting me when I needed someone the most, they didn't just treat me like a patient. They treated me like family.
And I will forever recommend this amazing law firm for all of your law. Needs, thank you guys, you're the best.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Shakima spence
Excellent experience with Riddle & Riddle consultation. Having the time to take out of their day to come to my home and visit me was truly a blessing. A time where I needed to be heard and listened to gave me a sense of peace. I truly appreciate them and the kind, warm spirit that Riddle & Riddle have. I highly recommend them to anyone who is in need. Thank you Kevin C.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
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21 May, 2024 by Phil black
03 May, 2024 by Jeffrey
Super professional and always on point. We were able match with our expectant mother and Angel guided us along the way and checked in often to motivate and encourage us. We finalized our adoption in about 4 months. Would not recommend anyone else but Angel.
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19 May, 2016 by Anastasia
Ms. Herring's firm was easy to work with and very helpful throughout the entire process. I'm a 3 time gestational carrier and still need guidance and reminders of the next steps, which is exactly what I received. It was a pleasure working with Ms. Herring and all of her amazing staff.
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11 May, 2016 by Roger
I've had to good fortune to know Parker since she was recommended to me during my divorce some 20 years ago. Through the years, we've stayed in touch, and I have recommended her to numerous friends in need of help with divorce or adoption. Hands down, Parker is one of the best family practice attorneys in the region. As impressive as her command of the legal ins and outs of divorce, what I found - and still find - most impressive is her command of how to manage the emotional aspects of divorce (especially when children are involved as was the case with my case) with the negotiation strategies that's needed. Parker's advice was spot on about when, what and how I should advocate for myself, and her focus on the long term picture helped me navigate the short-term emotional mess when a marriage dissolves. When I felt indignant or angry over a counter-offer about some minor debt my "future former" and I shared, Parker wisely counseled, "Roger, in the long run this is pocket change. It's not worth the fight because there are more important issues for us to take a stand on."
And she was right. Years later that advice to focus on what's really important in the long-run (that helped design a fair separation agreement that didn't engender long-term resentment) helped us work through a particularly thorny financial issue. And Parker was there right by my side again offering just the right guidance to help me come out of that negotiation (we were able to avoid court, thankfully) in a = good place. Moreover, Parker went out of her way to help keep my legal costs to a minimum.
Parker's a great attorney, a great individual and I'm proud to say a great friend. I cannot recommend her highly enough.
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10 May, 2016 by Jackie
Parker Herring is an excellent family lawyer who guided me through a difficult divorce. She is thorough, professional, compassionate, and experienced in every aspect of the divorce procedure. Parker was not only my legal counsel but she was my friend, guide, and protector throughout the divorce. I always felt safe and secure knowing that she would give me her best everyday.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Joshua kesling
Andrew is a fantastic addition to this team. He cares and does a very good job for his clients.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Thomas barber
Working with Mr.Gantt and his staff was a smooth process. His experience kept me calm through out this whole process.
Thanks
Gantt Fanily
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04 Aug, 2024 by Michael cornelius
Richard and his team really listened to try and understand my situation early on which was huge for me. They worked diligently to ensure that I was awarded 50/50 custody of my children which was my main goal in contacting his firm. If you are in need of an divorce attorney, I’d highly recommend giving Richard a call!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Joshua kesling
Andrew is a fantastic addition to this team. He cares and does a very good job for his clients.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Thomas barber
Working with Mr.Gantt and his staff was a smooth process. His experience kept me calm through out this whole process.
Thanks
Gantt Fanily
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04 Aug, 2024 by Michael cornelius
Richard and his team really listened to try and understand my situation early on which was huge for me. They worked diligently to ensure that I was awarded 50/50 custody of my children which was my main goal in contacting his firm. If you are in need of an divorce attorney, I’d highly recommend giving Richard a call!
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24 Jan, 2024 by Rachel harrell
Susan has been extremely helpful, empathetic, and professional over the years. I am grateful for her legal advice and understanding of the law!
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04 Oct, 2023 by Samantha clegg
I highly recommend Susan. She is extremely knowledgeable, passionate and thorough. Susan has always been professional and advocates for your child. If you want someone who is dedicated, hard working and helps you achieve your goals, she is the attorney for you.
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22 Sep, 2023 by Jinger robinson
I can not say enough great things about Susan and Sandlin Law Firm. I was referred to this firm when I moved here in 2016 while going through an ugly divorce. I have used Susan for the past 7 years and have referred her to friends that need a knowledgeable attorney who will have their back.
Susan listens to the needs of her clients and truly advocates for them. I was (and still am) navigating through all the “yuck” of divorce and Co-parenting and because of Susan, I feel supported. I would not want anyone else to fight for me. Susan genuinely cares for her clients!
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23 Aug, 2019 by Jim b.
Kevin is an excellent attorney helping my family work through the application process for getting my mom approved for Medicaid to cover her nursing home care. He is extremely knowledgeable regarding the process enabling the family to safeguard some assets. He kept me informed through the process and was always quick to get back with me to answer a question. I felt like I received a value added service and would strongly recommend Kevin to anyone going through this process or should they need other estate planning services.
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12 Apr, 2019 by Virginia
Kevin helped our family work through a very stressful situation after my mother’s passing. He was very professional, and acted as a mediator and objective third party carefully reviewing the details of the dispute. He was very concerned for the welfare of all parties involved, and worked diligently to try to reach a peaceful resolution. His communication skills are top notch as he carefully composed several letters to family members outlining procedures and explaining the law. He returned all phone calls and emails timely, and was always very courteous and kind to work with. He’s a most excellent lawyer, but even more importantly, he’s an amazing person too. Very thankful to God that Kevin Huston was there for our family. Very thankful to Kevin and for all his hard work.
Highly, Highly, Highly recommend him.
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22 Mar, 2019 by G.c.
We are so grateful for Kevin Huston's help, advice, patience, and kindness during a most difficult and painful time in our lives. I thank God every single day that he was there to help resolve issues and bring peace to my family. I could not recommend his services enough.
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09 Jan, 2016 by Dominic high
I had several speeding tickets in NC dating back to 2001. I contacted Ms Bostrom and she immediately got back with me and we planned out a strategy to pursue these tickets. Seeing that the tickets were in several counties, Ms Bostrom had to do a bit of leg worked to make contact with several small county DAs. That was not an obstacle for her!
When all was said and done, Ms Bostrom somehow was able to get me out of a ticket that carried a possible suspension of my license,etc. I was able to pay other tickets and fines through Ms Bostrom and that was really great, seeing that I now live in New Jersey.
We communicated on the phone and via email and she was always forthright in what the possible scenarios entailed.
I'd suggest that you retain Ms Bostrom's services because she is that good. Thank you.
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21 Apr, 2015 by Shareasa
I received a speeding/revoked license ticket about 2 years ago while employed with a transit company. In order not to lose my job and my remaining driving privileges I was ordered to attend a driving class. Mrs. Bostrom was a great helper in getting me the information I needed in a fast and timely matter. Once class was paid for and completed I received a certificate as verification and Mrs. Bostrom presented it to the right person and charges were dismissed. She is SO great!!!
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22 Feb, 2013 by David
Michaela is smart, hard working, and extremely passionate about her profession. She will work hard to make sure you get what you need, and is understanding to most circumstances. She was very flexible in working with my busy scheduled and I was very happy with the outcome.
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3.5
2 Reviews
4.7
117 Reviews
10 Dec, 2024 by Ajani murdaugh-wright
I got into a bind and was reluctant at first because of prices. I saw Mrs . Lacy H online and after already seeing great reviews I decided to reach out via email to discuss my case. Mrs. Lacy was very understanding and was very willing to negotiate my price as well being that I could have well spent over 1,000 is dollars I ended up paying only roughly 5-7 hundred. After a few emails back and forth she was very straightforward and helpful regarding possible outcomes and reassuring me every step of the way and showing up promptly to my case. I felt very validated. Thanks for helping me get the best outcome for my case .
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03 Dec, 2024 by Candace fish
13 Nov, 2024 by Donna walker
It has been an honor and privilege to have Sonya Dubree represent me for 2+ years throughout my divorce process. I am deeply grateful for her expertise, compassion, and dedication.
Sonya's partnership with Tharrington Smith (THS), alongside Steven Mansbery's representation, allowed them to expertly manage my divorce case, including the complex business and financial aspects involved. Their exceptional efforts led to favorable outcomes, including temporary spousal support, successful contempt motions and orders, attorney’s fees, and alimony. Although delays were unavoidable due to the defendant’s non-compliance and intentional obstruction—even in defiance of court orders—Sonya and Steven navigated these challenges with remarkable skill and professionalism, ultimately securing significant victories on my behalf.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Sonya, Steven, Monica, and Carolynn for their outstanding work during my alimony trial. Sonya’s opening statement was deeply compelling, compassionate, and credible, showcasing her commitment to my best interests. She excelled in cross-examinations and demonstrated genuine care and understanding when questioning me. Steven’s dedication, exceptional handling of expert witnesses, and strong expertise in complex financial analysis were invaluable in addressing the business, accounting, and economic aspects of my case, giving me confidence in his advocacy. I also appreciated Carolynn’s support throughout the hearing; her presence made a meaningful difference, strengthening our case. Together, they navigated the defendant’s tactics with finesse and crafted expertly tailored filings.
The diligence and commitment of the THS team have not gone unnoticed, and I am sincerely grateful for all they have done for me. I feel truly fortunate to have had their representation. Throughout this process, I developed a strong bond with Sonya, who not only fought tirelessly on my behalf but also kept me grounded, providing both expert legal guidance and compassionate support. She is an exceptional attorney and a wonderful person, and I am deeply thankful for her. Despite the frustrations—particularly with the defendant’s failure to substantiate financial claims and expenses—Sonya and her team offered me something invaluable: hope for the future and a sense of peace as this chapter nears its close.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Arnold dargen
1st time and I’m highly uneducated in theses matters, this team helped me understand and didn’t discuss things with me as if I should know. Look forward to this group assisting me.
Read more
07 Feb, 2025 by Benny lorie
I want to first and foremost can't express enough of my gratitude
Towards the amazing team at Riddle and Brantley. I was in a really bad car accident. And after trying to work with the insurance company with the at fault party and they weren't willing to help me. I honestly felt like it was the end of the road, and no one was going to help me.
Then I contacted this company and man old man. I can honestly say they came in the clutch. I'm blessed and grateful to my lawyer Daren Dawson and the exceptionally gifted an incredibly sweet patient Case Manager Kalena Tavares for their time and effort and assisting me when I needed someone the most, they didn't just treat me like a patient. They treated me like family.
And I will forever recommend this amazing law firm for all of your law. Needs, thank you guys, you're the best.
Read more
07 Feb, 2025 by Shakima spence
Excellent experience with Riddle & Riddle consultation. Having the time to take out of their day to come to my home and visit me was truly a blessing. A time where I needed to be heard and listened to gave me a sense of peace. I truly appreciate them and the kind, warm spirit that Riddle & Riddle have. I highly recommend them to anyone who is in need. Thank you Kevin C.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Christina s
I met Daphne Edwards and her staff in the midst of a high-conflict custody battle. There are no words to describe how amazing Daphne and her staff truly are!
High conflict cases can become lengthy and contentious. Daphne and her staff were attentive and supportive to our case from day one. Daphne guided us through the entire process, set expectations on what to expect during the process, helped us to stay focused on key issues and stayed in contact with us to update us on any developments as we neared our trial date.
From start to finish, Daphne and her staff knocked this out of the park! Daphne was thoroughly prepared for our trial and represented us better than we could have ever asked for! She is brilliant, strategic, attentive and has the ability to maintain a graceful level of integrity even when the opposing counsel does not.
We are forever grateful to have Daphne and her staff in our lives!
I highly recommend Daphne Edwards and her staff to anyone who is unfortunately going through a divorce and/or custody battle. Those are the times you need supportive people around you. People who listen and will fight for you. You will not find better than Daphne Edwards.
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20 May, 2024 by Kisha jordan
I am thrilled to write a review for the exceptional legal services provided by Daphane Edwards, who represented me in my prenuptial agreement case. From our very first consultation, Daphane demonstrated a profound understanding of family law and a strategic approach that ultimately led to our success.
Daphane’s communication skills were outstanding. She kept me informed at every stage, explaining complex legal terms in a way that was easy to understand. Her responsiveness to my questions and concerns provided a sense of reassurance and confidence during what could have been a very stressful time.
What truly sets Daphane apart is her compassionate approach. She genuinely cared about my well-being and worked tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome. Her negotiation skills were impeccable, and she handled the opposition with tact and poise, securing a favorable result without unnecessary conflict.
Thanks to Daphane's hard work and expertise, we won the case, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. I highly recommend Daphane Edwards to anyone in need of a skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate attorney. Her dedication to her clients and her mastery of family law make her an invaluable advocate.
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09 May, 2024 by Diana calafiore
There is a lot I have to put down as to why pick another attorney in the area.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Lauren bridgers
In my experience it appears they're so desperate for clients they will Support someone making 15k a month in trying to obtain Support from a mother barely making ends meet. Pathetic.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Brinx ;*
12 Jul, 2024 by Megan giroux
Eric is passionate about connecting with his clients who may be in crisis to let them know their options and walk every step of the way with them. I have been so impressed with his professionalism and approachability as a family law attorney.
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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.
