Legal Guidance For Private Adoption
Private adoption can be a meaningful way to grow a family, but the legal process behind it takes planning, attention to detail, and the right support. Our Bremerton, WA family lawyer knows that whether you’re adopting as a stepparent, a relative, or through a private agreement with the birth parents, it’s important to follow the proper legal steps to make the adoption valid and permanent.
A family lawyer knows that in a private adoption, the adoptive parents work directly with the birth parents, without using a public agency. This often allows more flexibility and personal connection, but it also means we need to handle the legal requirements carefully to avoid delays or problems later. Our firm has been voted Super Lawyer each year by our peers, so trust that we will work diligently on your behalf.
Start With Consent
One of the most important legal steps in any adoption is securing the birth parents’ consent. In most cases, both birth parents must voluntarily give up their parental rights before the adoption can move forward. Consent must be given in writing and often must be witnessed or approved by a judge, depending on the state. Without proper consent, the court may not finalize the adoption.
In some cases, consent might not be needed if a parent’s rights have already been terminated due to abandonment, neglect, or another legal reason. We can help determine whether consent is required and what steps to take if one parent can’t be found or won’t cooperate.
Complete A Home Study If Required
Some private adoptions still require a home study, which is an evaluation of your living situation, background, and readiness to adopt. Not all states require a full home study for private adoptions—especially if it involves a relative or stepparent—but it’s something we’ll want to check early in the process. The court may request this information even if it’s not required by law.
File The Proper Court Documents
To legally adopt a child, we’ll need to file a petition with the appropriate court. This usually includes several forms, such as the adoption petition, consent documents, and background checks. After reviewing the paperwork, the court will schedule a hearing where a judge finalizes the adoption and grants full parental rights to the adoptive parents.
Missing a step or filing something incorrectly can slow things down. Working with an attorney can help keep things on track and avoid unnecessary delays.
Protect Everyone Involved
Private adoption involves legal rights for everyone—birth parents, adoptive parents, and the child. A lawyer can help you draft agreements that clearly outline what each party has agreed to, including any open adoption terms if ongoing contact is planned. This protects the adoption from future challenges and helps all parties understand their roles and expectations.
At Robinson & Hadeed, we’ve helped many families complete private adoptions with care and legal clarity. We understand how important this process is to you, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you’re thinking about a private adoption, reach out to us to schedule a consultation. We’ll walk through your situation, explain what steps apply, and help you move forward with confidence. We currently serve Gig Harbor, Bremerton, Kitsap County, and more, so call our family law lawyer when you are ready.
