Lawyers map
>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
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
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
18 Feb, 2025 by Philip emmett
Amazing firm, very professional with an appreciated compassion for your situation!
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Annie thompson
Diana Cupps is an amazing attorney as well as personable. She and her staff are professional, communicative, and interested in your personal legal needs. I found Diana to be very compassionate as she navigated my case with great knowledge and determination. I recommend Diana Cupps highly.
Read more
27 Jan, 2025 by Dan fontana
Very easy to work with.
Read more
08 Jan, 2025 by Mandy hammond
Exceptional young man who is highly skilled and effective. No one in our area (Durant) would take our difficult, messy case. Ryan did…and he got us a settlement that made us whole again. He was patient with us during our most difficult of times. He was professional and polite when dealing with our opposition and handled all matters with grace and class. We are now happy to call him much more than our attorney. Thank you, Ryan.
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Austin cox
If you find yourself in the regrettable circumstance of needing a family lawyer, you cannot do better than Grant Brown.
What impressed me most was his preparedness. Grant takes the time to get to know his clients, as well as the opposing side and the case particulars. On court day, nobody will know more or be better prepared.
Secondly, I found his demeanor to be very appropriate. Grant is the guy who is READY for an ugly fight, not the guy who provokes one. He's calm and pleasant without fail right up until it's time not to be.
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Misty glynn
Ryan Childress (RC Law Group) recently helped me with a civil case where I was sued for negligence. From the beginning he told me how frivolous this case seemed. Throughout the process, we had a few settlement offers, which I was considering just to settle the case. Mr. Childress was honest and advised me properly. I am very happy to disclose my case was dismissed with prejudice due to Mr. Childress' honesty, consistency and dedication to my case.
I would HIGHLY recommend Mr. Childress (RC Law Group) if you are in need of an attorney.
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Kenneth spencer
Sarah was very personal and made me feel comfortable at every step. She was a great choice for representation.
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Joey reed
30 Jul, 2024 by Troy boyer
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
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
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
06 Jun, 2024 by Soheler chele
28 Sep, 2019 by Jeanette shelly
Ray was an amazing attorney when I needed him many years ago. I am sure that he continues to be one!
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by Heavyduty e46
Failed to to his job over and over again
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
24 Dec, 2024 by Bailey krouse
26 Nov, 2024 by Susan wolf
My name is Susan Wolf and my husband and I used Mitchell Garrett for our personal bankruptcy. Mr. Garrett and his legal secretary were both great to deal with. We live about 65 miles from Tulsa, Ok., and we got a lot of work accomplished on the telephone, and emails. When we went for the first meeting with Mr. Garrett and his legal secretary it went extremely well. Both were professional and made us feel welcome. Mr. Garrett was so helpful in explaining everything to us, as this was the first time we've done a bankruptcy. He is very smart and knows the law on bankruptcy very well. I would recommend Mr. Garrett to anyone who needs the services he offers. We are glad it all went so well. Thanks Mr. Garrett.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Sonya schneider
Anderson & Associates became part of my life at a very vulnerable time. I was involved in an auto accident that not only took my car away but my sense of comfort in busy traffic.
One phone call to this firm and I was all in. The staff was top notch experienced and did everything for me. They assured me to take it easy and they will take care of all the madness, which they fulfilled and then some.
The resolution from Anderson & Associates was more than expected and justified.
With reassurance from my attorney Lynn Anderson, I no longer have fear of what I experienced the day of my wreck.
My gratitude is endless to the professional and caring staff of Anderson & Associates.
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Summer boynton
I was in an accident in September 2024 and had a complicated case... while I contacted other attorneys in the area, I was met with disrespect and told my case wasn't worth the time... I was being discarded left and right...until...
I CALLED GREG DENNEY!
Greg immediately took control of my case by contacting my doctors and chiropractor alongside the overbearing insurance company.
Due to this accident, I am left with a lifelong, non-surgical injury that will affect me and the many activities I enjoy in everyday life (going to the gym, horseback riding, etc.) and Greg made that known to the insurance company. He made sure that MY health and well-being were the main priority and that I was in good and safe hands the entire time my case was open.
His office stays in constant contact with you throughout your case, and they make sure they are on top of getting you what you need! (PLUS, all of his staff is ALWAYS friendly, kind, and helpful!)
If you need an accident/injury attorney, don't call anyone else in the Tulsa area, CALL GREG DENNEY LAW!
Read more
19 Dec, 2024 by Susan mase
Greg is a great Lawyer. Greg and his team went above and beyond in what my son needed done and are very passionate about their job. They were always quick to have any questions we had and very knowledgeable. Thank you Greg Denney Law and team for representing my son.
I recommend him to any of my friends and family.
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Gage gleeson
Greg was absolutely fantastic the whole way through! Very professional and at a great price as well. I 100% recommend
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Bailey krouse
26 Nov, 2024 by Susan wolf
My name is Susan Wolf and my husband and I used Mitchell Garrett for our personal bankruptcy. Mr. Garrett and his legal secretary were both great to deal with. We live about 65 miles from Tulsa, Ok., and we got a lot of work accomplished on the telephone, and emails. When we went for the first meeting with Mr. Garrett and his legal secretary it went extremely well. Both were professional and made us feel welcome. Mr. Garrett was so helpful in explaining everything to us, as this was the first time we've done a bankruptcy. He is very smart and knows the law on bankruptcy very well. I would recommend Mr. Garrett to anyone who needs the services he offers. We are glad it all went so well. Thanks Mr. Garrett.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Sonya schneider
Anderson & Associates became part of my life at a very vulnerable time. I was involved in an auto accident that not only took my car away but my sense of comfort in busy traffic.
One phone call to this firm and I was all in. The staff was top notch experienced and did everything for me. They assured me to take it easy and they will take care of all the madness, which they fulfilled and then some.
The resolution from Anderson & Associates was more than expected and justified.
With reassurance from my attorney Lynn Anderson, I no longer have fear of what I experienced the day of my wreck.
My gratitude is endless to the professional and caring staff of Anderson & Associates.
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
12 Feb, 2025 by Koree hardrick
Charles Graham was an absolute lifesaver during my divorce. They fought tirelessly for me and, most importantly, for my two boys. Thanks to their expertise and dedication, I was awarded full custody, giving my children the stability and future they deserve. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and unwavering support made all the difference. I couldn’t have asked for a better advocate. Highly recommend!
Read more
05 Feb, 2025 by Brandy wilkins
Mr. Parsons helped my son out and got his case dismissed before the prosecutor was wanting it to be done. He was great
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Z
After searching for best DUI attorney for my friend we came across Graham. Put a retainer down. Parson showed up to every court date. Pushed dates out for a while, for which we are thankful rest was just a joke! If you are wanting to be pushed and talked into guilty plea on all counts, hire him immediately.
Mr. Graham I heard you are very prideful man hopefully having your name on this case doesn't hurt. Wish you could have actually represented my friend in court as it was planed.
Reply:
"Ill-informed," "clueless," "should be thankful?" Very narcissistic way to address a negative review.
Thank you for the reminder of his 20, 19, 18 and 13 year old cases, which were ether deffered or dismissed. We didn't realize you prefer to work with clients with no prior offenses. Our apologies.
My review still stands. Hired Graham, Parsons showed up to every court date. Grahams name is one the case. We are very disappointed with outcome especially after consulting with several attorneys after.
Read more
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
27 Jan, 2025 by Kselva kumar
Edge Law Firm is an outstanding legal team known for their professionalism, expertise, and dedication to achieving the best outcomes for their clients. Their attention to detail and commitment to providing clear guidance sets them apart as one of the best in the field. A truly reliable and highly recommended law firm for any legal needs
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Samuel warton
Mr. Moore at the Khalaf firm was stupendous, he helped me through a really tough time, was very understanding and responsive to any questions I had. I would definitely recommend him to anyone
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Tori rubidoux
These guys are AMAZING! 🤩
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Jennifer arambula
Absolutely phenomenal team at Conner and Winters. I was represented by Brad and Kayla for a post-divorce decree correction and had my case settled quickly and professionally. Please keep in mind, having your case work i.e. paperwork ready for your legal representation does help but Brad and Kayla effectively and efficiently handled my case that laid out a game plan from day one. I had to hire another lawyer from their firm for further litigation, Ryan, and he handled my case effectively as well. Conner and Winters set a very high bar for litigation and I would re-hire them without hesitation.
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
21 Dec, 2024 by Dr kinu tanaka
12 Dec, 2024 by Cristian camilo
They did a great job in fighting for me in my proceedings.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Nury tatiana
This law firm was really helpful for me and my family.
Read more
21 Dec, 2024 by Dr kinu tanaka
12 Dec, 2024 by Cristian camilo
They did a great job in fighting for me in my proceedings.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Nury tatiana
This law firm was really helpful for me and my family.
Read more
10 Dec, 2024 by Kevin wilson
Great service to have a protective order dismissed. Rob Henson was very responsive and always returned my calls or emails. I highly recommend his services.
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Brad potter
I am currently benefitting from Karla Rogers' professional expertise. She is a super attorney. She loves what she does. Nobody loves what they do, unless they are good, if not, the best. I was referred by another legal professional. That carries weight in itself. Listen people, if you want a bulldog that will bring you the kill with a smile on her face, Karla Rogers is for you. She is a badass Texas girl, who chose a better place to practice. I highly recommend her.
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by B a
I met Mr. Henson a few days after I was charged and he made me feel confident from day one I knew I was innocent and so did he and he proved it!!! He is amazing at what he does it isn't just a job it's a passion to him to help real people in need!!! I will always suggest him to anyone in need!!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Bailey krouse
26 Nov, 2024 by Susan wolf
My name is Susan Wolf and my husband and I used Mitchell Garrett for our personal bankruptcy. Mr. Garrett and his legal secretary were both great to deal with. We live about 65 miles from Tulsa, Ok., and we got a lot of work accomplished on the telephone, and emails. When we went for the first meeting with Mr. Garrett and his legal secretary it went extremely well. Both were professional and made us feel welcome. Mr. Garrett was so helpful in explaining everything to us, as this was the first time we've done a bankruptcy. He is very smart and knows the law on bankruptcy very well. I would recommend Mr. Garrett to anyone who needs the services he offers. We are glad it all went so well. Thanks Mr. Garrett.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Sonya schneider
Anderson & Associates became part of my life at a very vulnerable time. I was involved in an auto accident that not only took my car away but my sense of comfort in busy traffic.
One phone call to this firm and I was all in. The staff was top notch experienced and did everything for me. They assured me to take it easy and they will take care of all the madness, which they fulfilled and then some.
The resolution from Anderson & Associates was more than expected and justified.
With reassurance from my attorney Lynn Anderson, I no longer have fear of what I experienced the day of my wreck.
My gratitude is endless to the professional and caring staff of Anderson & Associates.
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Bailey hillis
keaton is a great attorney and person. we hired him back in september for my moms criminal case and he's done nothing but been helpful and supportive. he definitely eases our minds during this rough time and i definitely recommend him.
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Brooke chapman
I called Keaton after getting 3 charges. He was excellent in making me feel more at ease with everything. He was super understanding and kind throughout the whole process. He explained every question I asked him and He also got 2 of my bigger charges dropped! It was such a weight lifted off my shoulders. I’m so glad I chose Keaton as a lawyer! His dedication was evident from the start. He navigated my case with precision and provided clear, insightful guidance throughout the entire process. I highly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate legal professional. I’m very Happy with the outcome of having Keaton as my lawyer!
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Tina
My name is Tina Anderson I’m originally from New Orleans I was in a very serious situation where I was facing up to ten years in prison. Mr. Keaton was very transparent with me concerning my case. He answered all calls and questions my husband and I had before he took on the case and during the entirety of the case. Mr. Taylor was very knowledgeable he showed up on time for every court appearance was extremely professional. My case was ultimately dismissed which is very rare especially because CPS filed the charges against me. I really appreciate Mr.Taylor! I’m so glad to be back in New Orleans! Thank you so much for representing me!
Read more
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
02 Nov, 2024 by Sam mouchantaf
Great lawyer very fair answer my calls every time I call I recommend him to anyone needs help
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Pete
Super professional.
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by This is englett
I do not recommend him if ur from out of town , my opinion
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Oscar tejeda
My experience was very good!. I had made a consultation with Mr. Richard Moore and I met him with concerns and doubts and at the time I felt helpless and alone in this battle. I was made confident once I saw Mr. Richard Moore's passion in my case. I felt right away this is a man that will fight the battles that I don't have the tools for. I felt very confident about my choice and at the end it turned out to be a great choice. Thank you Stange Law firm. And thank you Mr. Richard Moore.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Ryan slaton
Richard Moore has done a fantastic job representing me in my divorce. He and everyone else at the firm have been great to work with and taken so much stress out of the process for me. I highly recommend the firm for anyone considering divorce.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Robbi florence
Richard Moore & his paralegal, Amit have been fantastic. We are still in the midst of the divorce process, but they are informative, helpful, kind, and aggressive where they need to be. I could not recommend Richard enough.
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Oscar tejeda
My experience was very good!. I had made a consultation with Mr. Richard Moore and I met him with concerns and doubts and at the time I felt helpless and alone in this battle. I was made confident once I saw Mr. Richard Moore's passion in my case. I felt right away this is a man that will fight the battles that I don't have the tools for. I felt very confident about my choice and at the end it turned out to be a great choice. Thank you Stange Law firm. And thank you Mr. Richard Moore.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Ryan slaton
Richard Moore has done a fantastic job representing me in my divorce. He and everyone else at the firm have been great to work with and taken so much stress out of the process for me. I highly recommend the firm for anyone considering divorce.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Robbi florence
Richard Moore & his paralegal, Amit have been fantastic. We are still in the midst of the divorce process, but they are informative, helpful, kind, and aggressive where they need to be. I could not recommend Richard enough.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Joy lang
Beverly Atteberry literally has changed the very course of my life. She got my criminal record completely expunged when other attorneys said it couldn't be done. I made some major mistakes n my life when I was younger I have completely changed my life but my record was keeping me from being able to fully live my life changed because of the felony tag I had on it. A whole new world of better possibilities and opportunities is now available for me so I can now, having changed my life, be able to truly follow my dreams and live them out. Thank you more than a Thank you could ever be enough. To Thank you with!
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Amber sweeten
The lawyer I guess that was assigned to my case does not communicate..I have no clue what's going on what the next steps are how long until I get to settle ..I can get double the amount of leg work done by myself quicker then waiting on even getting a responce..i have seen no effort in helping me with my accident..but i had to sign a contract like a dummy..
Read more
01 Nov, 2024 by Kea harris
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.
