Adopting a child is one of the most important decisions in your life. Adoption is a complex process with many variables and it is essential to have the help and representation of a highly skilled adoption attorney who understands adoption laws in Arizona and who can help facilitate a successful adoption. In addition, every adoption case is different with unique birth mothers, prospective adoptive parents, and varied circumstances. In order to ensure you can start your life with your new child in the best light possible, you want to make sure that your adoption attorney is the right one for you. The following are some questions to ask before deciding on your adoption attorney.
How many adoption cases do you handle?
Adoptions are traditionally handled by family law attorneys, who may also handle a variety of other family-related legal matters. If the attorney focuses most of their practice on divorce and has only handled a few adoptions over the years, they may not have the experience you need for a smooth adoption process.
Do you work with birth mothers, as well?
Attorneys who represent the interests of birth mothers as well as adoptive parents have a unique perspective from both sides of the adoption process. Law firms who can present your profile directly to birth mothers and try to match moms with adoptive parents can eliminate the need for a private adoption agency and make the process simpler for everyone.
What is your philosophy regarding adoption?
This can involve many different inquiries, including why they got into adoption law in the first place. You might ask whether the attorney supports the possibility of confidential adoptions, open adoptions, limited contact adoptions, or all of the above. You want to make sure your attorney will stand up for your needs and interests throughout the process. You might ask if the attorney is a member of any adoption groups or has experience with interstate adoptions. Furthermore, you want to make sure the birth mother is cared for, so you will want to ask regarding services the attorney provides to mothers including counseling and match services.
The above are only some of the many questions you can ask your prospective adoption attorney. In addition to questions, you should always make sure the attorney has a positive demeanor, pays attention to your concerns, fully and willingly answers your questions, and seems like a good fit for you and your family.
At the law firm of Stuart & Blackwell, we help families throughout Arizona with every step of the adoption process. We care about our clients and provide free initial consultations, so please call us today at 480-420-2900 for assistance.