>67
experienced lawyers
Filter by
07 May, 2024 by Sarah
I retained Shane Henry and he was upfront from the beginning and did not sugar coat expectations and cost. Communication was amazing with him and Amy their paralegal. They work very quickly and you see all communication with opposing counsel which I did not get from the attorney I had prior to retaining him. I got everything I wanted and I owe that to good counsel. I was able to get full custody which was best for my child. It was amazing. If I have to go back to court in the future, I will retain Shane. You will not regret going with Shane! If you are unsure, read the google reviews and do a consult. You will get exceptional service.
Read more
14 Apr, 2024 by Ernest maina
I really appreciate Shawna Baker Esq and her team, they were very thorough and kept me updated with my case, it was a privilege to be represented by her and her team, I highly recommend her.
Read more
03 Nov, 2023 by Jan starke
10 Jun, 2024 by Taylor rae
Would recommend this attorney and his assistant, the favorable outcome was achieved. Much appreciated for all their hard work and services. Thank you.
Read more
03 Jun, 2024 by Sarah cordell
30 May, 2024 by Kiayna smith
Ryan was very helpful with explaining how everything will turn out and the process behind it.
Read more
09 Dec, 2019 by Scott white
Matt was thorough and professional in handling my case. He was refreshing honest with me from the first conversation I had with him. The out come was better than I could have ever hoped for. I highly recommend Matt to anyone.
Read more
31 Oct, 2019 by Leslie dixon
27 Aug, 2019 by Trixi asher
Working with Matt after my injury was very pleasant. I felt safe in my desicion for representation, he maintained constant contact throughout the process, and was always honest about what was being done and expected. Thank you Matt, I appreciate all you did for me!
Read more
04 Dec, 2018 by Jeriah
Amy was very thorough and detailed. She stood and fought for me in the courtroom and helped get things right and in the best interest of my case. She has a DHS background which is a great asset in family law. Amy is very personable, passionate and driven. The end results of my case went far better than I ever dreamed possible thanks to Amy and her guidance. Would highly recommend!!
Read more
04 Dec, 2018 by Chrissy
Amy has taken such care to our case and kills it in court. She is always two steps ahead of the other side and prepares for trial in great detail. With her background at DHS she knows the system with child support as well, which proved to be helpful for us.
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Joel acosta
03 Sep, 2022 by Andrew oberhoulser
23 Jul, 2020 by Micky gordon
Chris works very hard for his clients, and does his best to get an appropriate outcomes.
Read more
04 Aug, 2018 by Mitchell garrett
I have served as co-counsel with Chris on several complex state and federal litigation cases. HIs attention to detail and never quit attitude is why I will always send clients his way !
Read more
03 Jun, 2018 by Brody camp
The best law firm in tulsa.
Read more
03 Feb, 2020 by Kelsey taylor
Superior attorney! I am so grateful for James Stout. He is sincere, knowledgeable, diligent, and prompt. I highly recommend him to anyone needing legal services.
Read more
20 Jan, 2020 by Debbie hattoy
I have and do highly recommended James Stout for many reasons. I have recommended him to several friends, family and strangers who were in need of any sort of legal representation because he has never let us down thus far. He is a class act. For my family, James has been our hero and our go to guy. Literally this man has been here for us through a variety of difficult situations. Family law, criminal defense, juvenile court, child support, and has even consulted with us on adoption procedures, power of attorney guidance for my terminally ill mother etc etc.. He is committed and honest. He doesn't tell us what we want to hear.... he tells us his honest opinion. He is fair and reasonable on a financial aspect, and always tries to get us the most for our money. He's caring on a personal level yet productive and professional when it's crunch time. One phone call to him, with a moment's notice and he has still shown up to aid me in difficult situations and that kind of attorney is unheard of these days. He is prompt and for the most part has actually answered his phone when we called him and if he didn't answer then he returned the call within 24 hours. He's always been on time for court dates. He also always keeps us updated and explains to us everything and prepares us for the process and/or what to expect next. Great guy. I hate needing a attorney ever, but if we do need one he'll be the guy.
Read more
21 May, 2018 by Stefan hipskind
One of the top young attorneys I know.
Read more
03 Feb, 2020 by Kelsey taylor
Superior attorney! I am so grateful for James Stout. He is sincere, knowledgeable, diligent, and prompt. I highly recommend him to anyone needing legal services.
Read more
20 Jan, 2020 by Debbie hattoy
I have and do highly recommended James Stout for many reasons. I have recommended him to several friends, family and strangers who were in need of any sort of legal representation because he has never let us down thus far. He is a class act. For my family, James has been our hero and our go to guy. Literally this man has been here for us through a variety of difficult situations. Family law, criminal defense, juvenile court, child support, and has even consulted with us on adoption procedures, power of attorney guidance for my terminally ill mother etc etc.. He is committed and honest. He doesn't tell us what we want to hear.... he tells us his honest opinion. He is fair and reasonable on a financial aspect, and always tries to get us the most for our money. He's caring on a personal level yet productive and professional when it's crunch time. One phone call to him, with a moment's notice and he has still shown up to aid me in difficult situations and that kind of attorney is unheard of these days. He is prompt and for the most part has actually answered his phone when we called him and if he didn't answer then he returned the call within 24 hours. He's always been on time for court dates. He also always keeps us updated and explains to us everything and prepares us for the process and/or what to expect next. Great guy. I hate needing a attorney ever, but if we do need one he'll be the guy.
Read more
21 May, 2018 by Stefan hipskind
One of the top young attorneys I know.
Read more
06 Jun, 2024 by Soheler chele
14 Apr, 2024 by Ernest maina
I really appreciate Shawna Baker Esq and her team, they were very thorough and kept me updated with my case, it was a privilege to be represented by her and her team, I highly recommend her.
Read more
03 Nov, 2023 by Jan starke
09 Aug, 2023 by Heather garner
Planning your future is never easy but Shawna was wonderful to work with. Very knowledgeable and patient. Highly recommend.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Kyle hopkins
Ali Hausner is hands down the best attorney I've ever had the pleasure of dealing with. She put more work into my case in two months than my previous attorney had in two full years. Ali will be my first and only call from now on for anything dealing with the courts.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Kenneth
Ali hausner goes above and beyond your expectations.. she’s a fighter and truly cares about your freedom, there’s a reason this law firm has all good reviews.. hopefully i don’t have to use her as an attorney again but if I do I know who I’m calling..
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Ryan scibelli
great service.
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Troy boyer
25 Jun, 2024 by Tyler brinkley
I would recommend and will use Chandler Moxley for all my legal needs from here on out! I had a pretty rough divorce and Chandler made the process extremely smooth during the difficult time. Her response time was absolutely amazing. She listened to my concerns. She is very smart and knowledgeable. The outcome was better than I could have imagined. She values her clients and her legal team is amazing! Her firm did an outstanding job. I couldn’t be happier with her team and the results. I would highly recommend Moxley law firm for any legal needs and especially divorce.
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Randy kennon
Fantastic service, great communication, and knowledgeable. I highly recommend.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Chelsie hall
Stephen Cale was awesome to work with. He was quick to get us in for our meeting, we gathered our evidence, went to court, and had it dismissed in less than a month and a half for the false charges on my husband! He was always quick to respond and answer our questions! I highly recommend him.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Faith brookshire
You never need a lawyer till you do and it can all be a stressful process. Keaton Taylor put my mind at ease with explaining the process and answering all my questions. Would highly recommend
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Bell morrow
Very professional, and kind. Highly recommend his services to anyone.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Angie koontz
Brad was very patient, kind and professional through a very difficult situation. I was thankful to have him in my corner.
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Janet halbert
Brad was able to put me at ease in a very difficult time. He and his team handled my case with professionalism and knowledge required. He was responsive to all my questions and concerns. Highly recommended.
Read more
06 May, 2024 by Brittany goins
Brad hosted a real estate class discussing how to handle a divorce as a realtor. The class was very informative and educational. Not only is he helping the public but he is helping educate us as realtors to help our clients in difficult and emotional situations.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Diana
Great at communication and very knowledgeable and strong when it comes to difficult divorces. Highly recommend!
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Charley
Diana and her team were absolutely amazing and great to work with. Her knowledge and professionalism are unmatched. She is very straight forward, doesn’t sugar coat anything, and doesn’t try giving false hope or drag things out just to profit more from her clients. It’s not easy to find a good divorce attorney for Okmulgee County and I’m very thankful to have found and to have hired her. Her willingness to travel and do whatever was needed to get things done was much appreciated. The communication from her and her team was top notch and they were always very prompt and on time. I would hands down recommend her for any and all of your family legal needs. The drive and passion that she has for serving her clients as well as her time spent serving our country was unparalleled and much appreciated.
Thank you again for going above and beyond for our country as well as my family.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Jenn
It’s hard to find a good divorce lawyer in Okmulgee County. Diana was definitely a blessing to help get the case settled in a timely manner. Her and her team are amazing at what they do and have excellent communication. If they say they will do something at a certain time then you can guarantee it will happen.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Jonathan gaytan
11 Mar, 2024 by Howell lake
This office strongly recommends,even my English not well, they are still very carefully detailed explaining all the questions.
Read more
31 Oct, 2023 by Miryah
29 Aug, 2024 by Charity brewer
Roger Holder is an outstanding lawyer. He is informative, patient, knowledgeable and an affordable lawyer.
Read more
18 May, 2023 by Jeanie carpenter
12 Nov, 2022 by Christina clark
05 Sep, 2024 by Tabitha fuentes
I was not sure where to go when I was needing a needing a divorce settled, but I am so glad I stumbled across Parsons, Graham & Day. They lifted the stress of it all right off my shoulders! And they were very easy to work with all my requests, going above and beyond to make sure we’d land on a positive end result. I truly appreciate all the hard work and dedication to my case
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Erica lyle
Parsons did an amazing job with my husband’s case . The team was professional, efficient, and exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend them! Thank You!
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Dawson cooper
“I got my first charge ever and Isaiah Parsons did an amazing job handling my case for me. Very professional and handled all my questions and concerns greatly! If you need an attorney for anything criminal Isaiah Parsons is the best attorney for it!”
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Valentin t
It was a real pleasure to work with Orndorff Law. Really professional and helpful, I recommend them!
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Ray ishee
I had spent two weeks looking for an attorney and had recieved the same statement from every one, "there just isn't enough money in it for me sorry and good luck" so I was about to give up when Chris called me late one Friday and said you have been done wrong let see what I can do. The next Friday he called again and had worked magic for me. He said we really can't take the case bit I want to do something for you and he did great ppl highly recommend
Read more
20 Jun, 2024 by Darline johnson
I’m still waiting for my bankruptcy
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Ray ishee
I had spent two weeks looking for an attorney and had recieved the same statement from every one, "there just isn't enough money in it for me sorry and good luck" so I was about to give up when Chris called me late one Friday and said you have been done wrong let see what I can do. The next Friday he called again and had worked magic for me. He said we really can't take the case bit I want to do something for you and he did great ppl highly recommend
Read more
20 Jun, 2024 by Darline johnson
I’m still waiting for my bankruptcy
Read more
10 Jun, 2024 by Steven lacy
Mitchell Garrett did a wonderful job assisting my family. I would highly recommend him for any needs you may have.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Ray ishee
I had spent two weeks looking for an attorney and had recieved the same statement from every one, "there just isn't enough money in it for me sorry and good luck" so I was about to give up when Chris called me late one Friday and said you have been done wrong let see what I can do. The next Friday he called again and had worked magic for me. He said we really can't take the case bit I want to do something for you and he did great ppl highly recommend
Read more
20 Jun, 2024 by Darline johnson
I’m still waiting for my bankruptcy
Read more
10 Jun, 2024 by Steven lacy
Mitchell Garrett did a wonderful job assisting my family. I would highly recommend him for any needs you may have.
Read more
11 Jul, 2024 by Sheryl p
Stacy Acord is an amazing attorney and our family is grateful for her.
Read more
22 May, 2023 by Stephanie noguera
21 Mar, 2023 by Amanda jenkins
If you want an atty who is scared of other counsel and wastes your money listening to the sound of their own voice, Chris Ubrecht is the atty for you.
Read more
15 Mar, 2024 by Katelyn denney
Hands down best attorney in town. He actually did my divorce in a matter of 10 days. He was very professional yet I felt like I had support through the entire process. His staff was very accommodating and treated me like a true priority. I wish I could give a 10 star review!! Thank you so much to Greg and everyone at Greg Denney Law who helped me start over!
Read more
14 Mar, 2024 by David reynolds
Greg Denney represented me in an auto accident where a truck side swiped my vehicle causing me to get pushed off the road where I struck a tree head on and the person responsible kept driving. Greg Denney was the best attorney I have ever had. He genuinely cared and made me feel like family not just a client and a pay day. He was swift dealing with the insurance companies and I received more than I ever expected to get. I also had the privilege of being in court on an unrelated matter and got to see him representing one of his clients in a criminal case and I almost felt sorry for the prosecutor cause Greg chewed him up and spit him out and got the case dismissed effortlessly. He is super sharp with the laws and definitely who you want representing you and your family
Read more
14 Mar, 2024 by Levi currier
Greg took care of me after a motorcycle wreck and was amazing to work with. Great guy in general! The process was easy and he was transparent!
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Rita cain
Amber Garrett is just amazing. I can’t say enough good things about her professionalism and her integrity. I’ve had dealings with other attorneys who were less than ethical. I appreciate her honesty and attention to detail. I recommend her highly!
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Keri cain
I have enjoyed working with Amber and her team. Truly experts in cannabis law and always kind and professional. If you are looking for someone who is intelligent, dedicated, driven, and ready to fight for you then this is the right law firm.
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Colton jones
09 Sep, 2024 by Rita cain
Amber Garrett is just amazing. I can’t say enough good things about her professionalism and her integrity. I’ve had dealings with other attorneys who were less than ethical. I appreciate her honesty and attention to detail. I recommend her highly!
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Keri cain
I have enjoyed working with Amber and her team. Truly experts in cannabis law and always kind and professional. If you are looking for someone who is intelligent, dedicated, driven, and ready to fight for you then this is the right law firm.
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Colton jones
02 Feb, 2024 by Joshua redmond
She was good and thorough to make sure my contract would not go against me.. She also was good enough to review my contract at the last minute and with short notice.
But the charges beyond the retainer were outrageous! Over $1500 just for emails communications alone. Hopefully, I get what I paid for and my contract is iron clad 🤞 🙏
Read more
03 Jan, 2024 by Erin
Melissa and her staff were very attentive to the case that we were faced with. She and her amazing staff went above and beyond for us. It was very comforting to know we had this amazing law firm, they were nothing less than incredible every step of the way.
Read more
23 Sep, 2023 by Tyler cline
Melissa F Cornell is dangerous. With a reputation for mudslinging and parental alienation tactics, if you're going for ethical, id highly advise you seek counsel elsewhere. Ms. Cornells actions have placed my four children in danger, as well as dissociated them with a loving home and family. God holds a special place for those who harm our children.
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Elman carranza
Tuve el privilegio de ser representado por esta firma de abogados
Son unas personas dedicadas a su profesión
Con mucha experiencia y como resultado mi caso fue ganando
Yo los recomiendo en base a mi experiencia
Gracias por Muy bien toda su ayuda mi familia y yo se los agradecemos muchísimo por siempre
Read more
26 Jul, 2024 by Cynthia chotinikorn
08 Jul, 2024 by Kensie rayne
I have been very pleased with Mr. Swab's work on my boyfriend's case. He has consistently been thorough with all of the processes/steps & has promptly completed everything that has needed to be done with no problems. He has been very easy to get ahold of and has answered any question that I've had regarding the case. I would definitely recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney. We will continue to use his amazing service for the remainder of the case!
Thank you so much for all of your hard work it is greatly appreciated!
-Kensie
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Susana salinas
Muy mal me recomendaron aqui que me podian ayudar yo le llamaba al sr marco y nunca sabia de lo que le estaba hablando y luego nunca me contestaba mis llamadas y le hablaba de otro celular me contestaba me evadia si le estoy llamando es porque me interesa contratarlo tengo dinero para pagar no estoy mendigando el servicio no se parecia que no queria atenderme enrealidad muy mal pague mis 350$ perdidos enrealidad porque nunca me explico nada gracias por nada por no ayudar
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Robert smith
I hired Austin Ervin to represent me for small claims. He talked with me for 3 or 4 months, then dropped me completely. This was after he took my money and never offered to return it. I tried to get a hold of him numerous times by phone, text messages, and g mail with no contact. Don't use him unless you want to lose your money.
Read more
27 Apr, 2024 by Lauren
My husband and I worked with Marco for our permanent residence application. I was thankful to have a responsive, knowledgeable and friendly expert to ask any questions to. Thank you Marco!
Read more
05 Aug, 2024 by Malayna hasmanis
**Lawyer Review: Disappointing Representation by Karla**
I am writing this review on behalf of someone close to me who was represented by Karla. Unfortunately, our experience was deeply unsatisfactory. I often had to initiate contact with her due to her consistent lack of timely communication. This was particularly concerning as it significantly delayed crucial updates and preparation for our case.
Karla's preparation for the case was shockingly inadequate. She left vital aspects until the last minute, leaving us unprepared and at a disadvantage. Her negligence in leading with due diligence to protect her client's interests was apparent throughout our dealings.
Additionally, Karla's conduct included multiple instances of gaslighting, where legitimate concerns were disregarded or twisted, creating a distressing atmosphere of mistrust. Combined with questionable decisions that raised ethical concerns, her integrity as a legal professional came into serious question.
In light of these experiences, I strongly discourage anyone from seeking Karla's services. Her consistent failures in communication, preparation, and ethical conduct suggest a level of incompetence that borders on malpractice. For those seeking competent and trustworthy legal representation, I recommend exploring other options to avoid the frustrations and risks associated with Karla's representation.
Read more
15 May, 2024 by Larry pryce
Mr. Henson recently provided me with legal representation and I found him to be extremely professional and respectful. I would certainly recommend him to anyone needing an attorney.
Read more
09 May, 2024 by Ashton larue
Great lawyer i would highly recommend
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Kinsleigh
Hire Scott Sherrell!!
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Mikah swisher
Richard Moore and his paralegal Amit have been amazing and super helpful thus far into my divorce process. With it already being a difficult time, they are doing everything to keep my mind at ease and handling my case in a delicate manner with a minor child being involved. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a lawyer that cares about the outcome!
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by Sarah bethscheider
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
