Step 1: Determine which Type of Adoption is the Best for You
There are different options for adoption in Arizona, including a public adoption through the state or a private adoption arranged between you and the birth parents. Each has different pros and cons and some key differences between the two can include:
- The cost associated with the adoption
- How quickly the adoption can be finalized
- The age of the children available for adoption
- The risk of special needs of the adopted child
- Eligibility for adoption tax credits or subsidies
Our experienced adoption attorneys will carefully review any questions or concerns and will evaluate your situation to help ensure you choose the right type of adoption.
Step 2: Connect with the Right Birth Mother
Many people do not know where to begin when trying to connect with birth parents for a potential adoption. After all, you cannot simply check the classified ads. In addition, you want to make sure that no fraud or scheming is at work in your potential adoption. Our attorneys understand how important connecting with the right birth parents can be—for all parties involved. We have profiles of both birth parents and of potential adoptive parents so we can best facilitate the right match for you.
Even if you do not find a match right away, we can keep your profile in our office at no cost to you and will show it to birth parents who are choosing adoptive parents. We will keep working for you until you achieve your adoption goals and can make suggestions to increase your chances of getting selected.
Step 3: Attend to the Needs of the Birth Mother
Once you have matched with a birth mother, you want to make sure that she—and your future adopted child—are properly cared for. She may need assistance with certain medical costs and living expenses during her pregnancy and in the few weeks that follow. Many adoptive parents in Arizona help with these expenses to ensure the well-being of both mother and child. However, in some situations, state law requires you to petition the courts for approval to pay these expenses and our adoption attorneys can help with that process.
In addition, our legal team works can work with birth mothers to help ensure they have the help they need. We often assist with the following and more:
- Enrollment in Medicaid
- Applying for food stamps
- Obtaining any other medical or financial benefits they need
- Adoption counseling
Step 4: Find an Experienced Adoption Lawyer You Can Trust
While all of the above steps are critical to a successful adoption, they are not simple tasks. You need an Arizona adoption lawyer on your side who can guide you through every step of the process. At the law firm of Stuart & Blackwell, we work closely with both adoptive parents and birth parents to ensure that everyone has the support they need during the adoption. To learn more about the many ways we can help, contact us to schedule a consultation.