Suffolk VA Adoption Attorney

Guiding You Through Family Law Matters in Virginia

Bringing a new child into a home is an emotional time in any family; but when it is an adoption, it also involves numerous legal aspects. Our family attorneys at Bush & Taylor, P.C. can help you traverse the process of adoption, inform you of what to expect during the process, and help you understand the difference between adopting privately or through an agency.

There are various types of adoption, including:

• Open adoptions, where the birth mother will choose a family that she feels is best for her child. The adopting parents will meet with the birth mother and share information about the child. This contract is a life-long contract.
• Semi-open adoptions, where the birth mother will specify certain characteristics that she would like present in her child’s new parents, but ultimately does not pick the adopting parents. Some updates will be sent to the birth mother about her child.
• Closed adoptions, where the birth mother is not a part of the placement of her child and will not receive any updates about the child.

We are here to make the process of adoption as easy as possible. We serve individuals across Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and Eastern Shore. Contact us online or call at (757) 926-0078 for an initial consultation. No consultation fee!

The Adoption Process in Virginia

The adoption process generally consists of several key steps:

• Initial Consultation: Begin with a meeting to discuss your goals, preferences, and the type of adoption you wish to pursue. This is an opportunity to ask questions and gain clarity about the process.
• Home Study: A home study is a comprehensive assessment that evaluates your suitability as an adoptive parent. This may include background checks, interviews, and home visits conducted by a licensed social worker.
• Placement: Once the home study is approved, you will be matched with a child. This stage may vary depending on whether you are adopting through an agency or privately.
• Finalization: After a specified period of placement, the adoption can be finalized in court. This legal proceeding establishes your parental rights and officially integrates the child into your family.

Eligibility requirements for adopting a child in Virginia

In Virginia, the eligibility requirements for adopting a child generally include the following:

• Age: Prospective adoptive parents must be at least 18 years old. There are no upper age limits, but agencies may consider the age of the adoptive parents in relation to the child.
• Residency: While Virginia residents are preferred, non-residents may also adopt, especially if they are adopting through an agency or have a specific connection to Virginia.
• Marital Status: Both married couples and single individuals can adopt. If married, both partners must consent to the adoption.
• Background Checks: All adult household members must undergo criminal background checks and child abuse clearances.
• Home Study: A home study is required to assess the prospective adoptive parents’ suitability. This includes interviews, home visits, and evaluations of financial stability and parenting capabilities.
• Health: Prospective parents may need to provide evidence of good physical and mental health.
• Financial Stability: Adoptive parents should demonstrate the ability to provide for the child’s needs.

These requirements may vary based on the type of adoption, so it's essential to consult with a Suffolk adoption attorney for specific guidance.

Professional. Responsive. Caring.

Backed by more than 15 years of experience, our Suffolk adoption attorneys are deeply familiar with all aspects of this area of law. We can effectively navigate you through the complex process as we help you make well-informed decisions regarding your future. Our firm truly cares about our clients, and we are dedicated to getting the results you need. You can rely on us to provide you with the compassionate and relentless representation you deserve.

Learn more about our attorneys by clicking on their names below:

• Justin Bush
• Fred Taylor
• Brandon Wilder
• George W. Bruch

To speak with one of our knowledgeable adoption lawyers in Suffolk, contact us online or call Bush & Taylor, P.C. today at (757) 926-0078.