I recommended to anyone hoping to adopt that they hire a professional adoption attorney.
In my most recent YouTube video I share with you my insider tips on how to identify a good adoption attorney.
You know you have a good adoption attorney when:
- They know the adoption laws and judges
Laws vary from state to state and from county to county. Within that, each judge will also have individual strengths and potential biases. When your attorney is aware of these factors they will be able to help you know where to file your case. - They know the federal laws that impact adoption
There are two major federal laws that impact adoption: the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), and Interstate Compact (ICPC). A good attorney will help you maintain compliance with these laws. - They tell you about the federal adoption tax credit
A good attorney will tell you about the federal tax credit that is available to you as an adoptive parent. This increases each year, currently it is a little over $14,000. - They know how to handle a contested adoption
I believe this is the most important reason to hire an adoption attorney. In the case of a contested adoption a good attorney will know how to handle this and will help you get through this challenging time. - They know the in’s and out’s of where you should file your adoption
From laws, to personalities, to judges, to peculiarities, a good attorney will have a grasp on all factors that could impact the success of your adoption process. - They know the in’s and out’s of living expenses
Living expenses are when an expecting mom is allowed to have support with rent, utilities, and transportation during her pregnancy and placement. However, the degree of support varies depending on state and county so your attorney will help you navigate this. - They do not represent both parties
As I have said previously, this is a big red flag for me. It is legally allowed in some states, but I do not consider this to be best practice. In my experience, a good adoption attorney will not represent both the expecting mom and the hopeful adoptive parents in the adoption process.
With these tips in mind, I know you will be able to choose the attorney that’s right for you. Thank you for allowing me to be a small part of your adoption journey!
What did you think of this week’s All About Adoption episode? Balancing multiple adoptions can be tricky, but with the right approach and perspective, you can make it work!
What are other adoption questions you may have? We’d love to hear them! Make sure you leave a comment below!
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