If you need help navigating the adoption process, please read on, then contact one of our experienced Hudson County family law attorneys to learn the answers to frequently asked questions about adoption in New Jersey.
What types of adoptions are available in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, you may adopt through the following processes:
- Domestic adoption: When a U.S. resident chooses to adopt a child who was born in the U.S. Typically, this process will involve an adoption agency.
- International adoption: When you adopt a child from another country. This type of adoption is much more intricate and demands a lot of travel to and from the child’s home country, so it is important you understand all it entails before proceeding.
- Second-parent adoption: A same-sex parent may adopt his or her biological or adoptive child without terminating the first parent’s legal status as a parent.
- Private adoption: When you either adopt a child through his or her biological parent or adopt a child you already know. You can usually avoid adoption agencies by taking this route.
- Step-parent adoption: This form of adoption requires either the consent of the non-custodial parent or the termination of his or her biological parental rights. This typically only occurs when there is evidence of abuse or neglect.
- Adult adoption: This typically occurs when two or more adults wish to transfer inheritance rights and/or filiation.
What does the New Jersey adoption process entail?
To begin the adoption process, you will enter a 27-hour training period, known as the “Home Study.” You will also be required to submit various personal documents and information, such as your financial standing, employment, schooling and medical references, among others.
Once you submit your application to adopt a child and acquire the state’s approval to adopt, you will have to meet and match with a child, have all involved parties give their consent to the adoption and finalize the adoption in court. You will be subjected to home visits afterward to ensure your child is in a safe, positive environment.
How can a Hudson County family law attorney help you?
Adoption is an intensive, document-heavy process, as the courts need to know whether you are right for the child on several different levels. As a result, you would be well advised to have an experienced family law attorney from a Hudson County law firm walk you through the process. Our firm will help keep you apprised of your rights and responsibilities and provide guidance to navigate this process. Do not go it alone. Give us a call today.
Contact our Firm
We understand how emotional and difficult matters of family law can be. If you need the assistance of a knowledgeable attorney to help protect your right to your family, please do not hesitate to contact our experienced firm. We are eager and dedicated to helping you through this difficult time. Our personal injury specialists at Greenberg & Walden, LLC are standing by for a free initial consultation. Call us at 201-528-6928
