Adoption is a life-altering decision and an enormous investment; both financially and emotionally. The process can be long and tedious and requires loads of paperwork, home- studies, and days in court. With the help of an attorney, you can feel confident that the adoption of your new family member will be a smooth process.
What does an adoption lawyer do?
A lawyer will help you in every step of your adoption process, including making informed decisions. This is especially true if you are unsure what adoption procedures entail or whether you are ready to adopt at all. For example, anyone considering adoption has various options through which to complete the process, such as:
Adopting through a public or private agency;
Adopting independently;
Adopting internationally;
Adopting as stepparents;
Adopting as relatives;
Adopting after foster placement with the help of the state of Florida.
Considering all of these options can be an overwhelming experience, but an attorney will make sure that you understand the process, your legal obligations and rights, and will explain which (if any) of these options are available to you. In addition, they will explain any state or country specific laws that apply to your case. This process also requires an attorney to prepare all of your legal documentation. This is imperative to make sure that there are no delays in your case. Moreover, a lawyer will represent you at adoption hearings, (in some instances) may be able to help expedite your case and can assist you if there are complications of any kind.
How much does an adoption lawyer cost?
Most lawyers charge either by flat fees or through hourly billing. However, there are various factors that will determine the cost of hiring an attorney. Some factors include:
The states/countries involved in the adoption;
The type of adoption;
The cost for court document preparation;
Court fees; etc.
According to American Adoptions, an adoption can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $50,000, depending on your set of circumstances. While consulting with your attorney, make sure to be up front about your financial limitations. Your attorney will let you know what to expect and may devise a payment agreement tailored to your needs.
How long does it take to complete an adoption?
It’s hard to say how long the adoption process will take. Every family has unique circumstances in their case that determine the amount of time that an adoption will take. This is why contacting a family lawyer with experience in adoptions is highly recommended. They will help you determine the best route for you to take on your adoption journey.
If you are thinking of adopting or seeking guardianship, we would love to help you at S.K. Burt Law, P.A. Please feel free to give us a call at (407) 308-2936.
Sources:
Comentarios