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Ryan M Johnson, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Salem, OR with 337 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,70
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4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
25 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
312 Reviews
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24 Jan, 2025 by Kathy lollar
Debbie with Johnson & Taylor was a pleasure to work with on closing out my dad's estate. She was knowledgeable, professional, & prompt in her responses...while also being personable & friendly. She made a complicated process easy to navigate. Thx Debbie!
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09 Jan, 2025 by Ali n
I highly recommend hiring Rayhan Chaudhary as your lawyer. He’s represented me and did an excellent job. I admire his ethic work and composure. Also lawyer rayhan is very honest and specific.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Edward fernandez
I was fortunate enough to get a referral from OR lawyer association. James Sellers was my attorney. He was excellent from the "get go". Great listener and communicator. He was always ahead of things, and we checked in regularly. Over the course of 2 years, I was very confident in his ability. Things turned out well. I recommend him and the firm highly.
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Lori A Jenkins, experienced Adoption, Estate Planning attorney in Salem, OR with 12 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,37
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
12 Reviews
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20 Apr, 2024 by Kari
My husband & I used Lori to take care of our adoption (which was an open adoption for our great niece). We we anxious to get the adoption done and Lori was compassionate to listen to our story, knowledgeable in rights of the family members, and was efficient in getting the adoption completed within two months! Lor is amazing and trustworthy. This review is so late, but we appreciated how simple she made this portion of our adoption !
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12 Oct, 2021 by Tasha
We contacted Lori Jenkins for my husband to adopt my four children, all teenagers. She was very knowledgeable about any and all questions we had. She handled our case with care and efficiency. She is always patient, caring, and professional. The adoption went very smoothly and faster than we expected as the bio-father lives in another state. It helped that my ex willingly signed consent to the adoption but we feel it was Lori that made the process so smooth and easy for us. We would most definitely hire her again should we need a lawyer in a similar area of expertise. Thank you Lori!
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27 Jul, 2021 by Jessica
My husband and I hired Lori initially to help us terminate my Ex’s legal rights to my son and allow my husband to adopt my son. It ended up being a long, brutal, custody battle with my ex who had resurfaced after being absent for years from my son’s life. Lori fought hard for us, prepared us every step of the way, took time to listen to us but also told us ways we could cut costs by handling certain things ourselves. She told us our options along the way and explained why she recommended one option over the other. She helped us see things realistically and at times helped to reel in emotions and keep things focused on our son vs my ex. With her help we were able to come to a sustainable agreement that kept our son safe. My ex was granted supervised visits that would graduate to unsupervised, then overnights, then short summer visits then eventually 3week summer visits. Lori told us this was the best solution to give him time to prove himself or enough rope to hang himself. It’s been over 5yrs since that arrangement was made and he has still never had an unsupervised visit and only maintained contact for about a year. Lori still touches base with us to see how we are doing. Our son turns 18 next year and Lori will be handling the adult adoption case for us so my husband can finally legally be named his dad. We can’t thank Lori enough for all of her hard work and dedication. If you’re looking for an attorney you can trust with your children’s lives, look no further.
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Sarah M. Litowich, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Salem, OR with 120 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
40,49
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
100 Reviews
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16 Jan, 2025 by Colleen williams
Professional work with up to date communication during the entire process. I highly recommend Litowich Law!
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09 Jan, 2025 by Guillermo munoz
Recently worked with Litowich Law PC and was very satisfied with their professionalism, timely manner and over all experienced in family law. Kathrine and her team took the time to listen and explain everything throughly. I highly recommend this firm to anyone needing assistance in family law.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Lidia santos
I had the best experience with Zachary Gottlieb and his team at Litowich Law. Zach was very professional and personable but above all, he was very communicative which I was really appreciative of. I live a couple hours from Salem, and yet he made it very easy to exchange/submit documents back and forth. The office was also very easy to reach and hear back from. I am very happy with my experience and I would recommend him and Litowich Law to anyone.
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Katherine H. Denning, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Salem, OR with 113 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
40,10
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
4.8
13 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
100 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Jan, 2025 by Colleen williams
Professional work with up to date communication during the entire process. I highly recommend Litowich Law!
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09 Jan, 2025 by Guillermo munoz
Recently worked with Litowich Law PC and was very satisfied with their professionalism, timely manner and over all experienced in family law. Kathrine and her team took the time to listen and explain everything throughly. I highly recommend this firm to anyone needing assistance in family law.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Lidia santos
I had the best experience with Zachary Gottlieb and his team at Litowich Law. Zach was very professional and personable but above all, he was very communicative which I was really appreciative of. I live a couple hours from Salem, and yet he made it very easy to exchange/submit documents back and forth. The office was also very easy to reach and hear back from. I am very happy with my experience and I would recommend him and Litowich Law to anyone.
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Ryan Edward Gibb, experienced Adoption, Elder Law attorney in Salem, OR with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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16 Mar, 2016 by Michael c.
After my father's death we went looking for and found through referral, Ryan Gibb. He is very professional and spent time with us resolving my father's estate. He is efficient and thorough along with compassionate. I highly recommend him.
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Michelle Vlach-Ing, experienced Adoption, Business attorney in Salem, OR with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
One of the two best intellectual property attorneys I've been associated with in my 50 years of business experience. Michelle pleaded our case concerning a trademark that was deemed by the trademark officer to be too similar in definition as to be an infringement. She convinced the reviewing officer that we would not be infringing and consequently we received our registered mark for the product. In another instance she negotiated a co-existance agreement that could have cost us the trademark of our flagship product and, even convinced the other party to pay most of our legal expense.
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Kristin Lamont, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Salem, OR with 20 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
38,22
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
4.8
20 Reviews
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21 Nov, 2018 by Julie
I was able to concentrate on healing and moving on with my life during a very difficult time. Kristin is thorough and considerate, smart and savvy with fellow attorneys, and ultimately someone who can be trusted as you move through the changes - to have your best interests at heart. I recommend her to anyone in need of a family lawyer.
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28 Oct, 2018 by Amy
Kristin Lamont's service is first rate. Her strengths include attention to detail, providing clients options while explaining the possible outcome and focusing on assembling a tight case resulting in a favorable outcome for her clients. I really enjoy working with Kristin. Her support staff are friendly, pro-active, organized and efficient. I highly recommend Kristin Lamont.
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18 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Friendly, knowledgeable, approachable, understanding, experienced lawyer and all of her support staff! Everyone there is very caring and considerate especially when cases can be difficult and sensitive. We always felt like we were in great hands!
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Lisa D Wright, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Salem, OR with 12 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,70
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
4.3
12 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Aug, 2024 by Crystal
Mold in several coffee cups on her desk. Was told to wait while she investigated future Disneyland Deals. Speaks loudly about her clients to others. Please see her revocation with Oregon DOJ for the same reasons... A conflict of interest in the court system.. Paid thousand of dollars, never a show in court.
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06 Sep, 2019 by Jonathan
I hired Lisa to represent me in my divorce. The circumstances in my case were probably the hardest that a lawyer can deal with. Specifically, my ex wife was abusive and extremely mentally ill. Without Lisa, I do not believe my children would be in a safe place right now. She was honest and forthcoming about my advantages, weak points, and things to consider. She was not afraid to tell me when I was wrong, which should be appreciated in cases like this. The divorce was long and drawn out, 15 months. During that time, Lisa was patient with my stress, and always answered questions in a timely manner. If you want a lawyer with integrity and honesty, but also knows how to win, you would do well to hire Lisa. There is not enough gratitude in the world for me to express just what she has done for my children and me.
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13 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
I contacted and hired Lisa several years ago on an emergency child custody issue. She was amazing, walking me through what I needed to know and do. I hired her again this year because I trust her skills, and appreciate how she fights for me and my child.
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Timothy M Brown, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Salem, OR with 3 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,13
star star star star star
2.3/5
Avvo
2.3
3 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
He totally screwed up my case. Did not file a response to a motion. Because of his failure at the hearing nothing we had to say could be heard. My cat could have done better. At the hearing his hair was greasy. He looked like a slime ball. $7000+ and he didn't do anything but hurt my case.
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19 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Tim was hired short notice for an emergency situation in my family. He was the only attorney that was available short notice on a holiday. (Now I see why) During a phone call when I'm obviously stressed and panicking he shushes me. Which I thought was unprofessional but things had started moving, or so I thought. In a hearing he shows up to, he flat out stayed silent. No defense against easily proven lies from my ex. Even when I had mentioned that these statements were untrue. That same hearing he arrive very disheveled and his suit was covered in beard hair from possibly shaving in his car or who knows. I just know it was very unprofessional. After a heating he gave me bad advice concerning my rights and actions which lost me ground to MY abuser because he didn't pay attention to the entire hearing. He also failed to file important documents I spent days working on, reviewing, and re writing. He said he had a plan. Seemed very motivated and driven for helping me. But he didn't even take accurate notes that he himself asked for over the phone. I had to speak up and correct my own attorney over details he couldn't seem to even take accurate notes on. After that he tanked my hearing and did nothing. After that I fired him and somehow my retainer that was just replenished was evaporated to almost nothing even though I had just replenished funds and he had no work. You might as well defend yourself. Heck, even the guy who serves coffe at the drive through could probably do a better job than TIm A Clown in a cheap suit. This is my opinion from working with him directly. His only other rating is from another attorney. Imagine that.
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18 Dec, 2020 by Emily
Tim Brown has been the pillar in my understanding, interpretation, and overall ability to move forward with my child custody case. With every hiccup that has pushed us back in this process; his ability to think, act and react never siezes. He's truly and incredibly gifted at his occupation. The communication, professionalism, and dedication he displays is absolutely out of this world and has blown every expectation I had out of the water, as well as having torn through every bit fear I had coming into this process. Mr Brown's legal knowledge, interpersonal skills, respectful demeanor, and above the standard professionalism, has made this whole stressful and difficult process clear and more comfortable than I imagined possible. A child custody case of ANY length creates undue stress and feelings of concern on parents and children, inadvertently. Mr Brown's ability to perform his expected duties along with his ability to calm my fears and help me focus on the bigger picture has been pivotal. His knowledge, experience, and genuine care is exceptional. Professionalism, hard work, and dedication worth it's weight is difficult to find. Tim Brown embodies all of these traits and continues to go above and beyond the typical call of duty in my case. There is no shortage of human decency (in this seemingly indecent occupation) when working with the team at LaMont Law and I highly recommend Tim Brown.
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David Alexander Bearman, experienced Adoption, Estate Planning attorney in Salem, OR with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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John R Pettifer, experienced Adoption, Appeals attorney in Salem, OR with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Jill Francine Foster, experienced Adoption, Estate Planning attorney in Salem, OR with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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