DEAR ADOPTING PARENTS

About Your Decision
Legal Services: California Clients
Legal Services: Out of State Clients
Frequently Asked Questions

Legal Services: Out of State Clients

WE PROVIDE SERVICES TO CLIENTS THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES often because, legally or philosophically, the lawyers in their home states, choose not assist in locating and matching with a birth parent. This leaves clients feeling lost and unprotected in the most vulnerable part of the adoption process. Our out of state clients can rest assured that we comply with all relevant laws and policies in each of the states that may be involved in an adoption situation. We work with respected colleagues around the country who are most usually members of the prestigious American Academy of Adoption Attorneys.

As of January 1 of this year, out of state residents are able to adopt in California if the baby is born here. California’s laws are fair and what I call "adoption friendly". In some instances, the decision to adopt in California will obviate compliance with the onerous laws or regulations of their home state. See "Legal Services: Out of state clients" for a summary of California adoption procedures.

Clients may find it appropriate, legally or financially to complete the adoption in their own state. In other instances, clients may make the decision to adopt in another state altogether, depending on where the baby is born and the jurisdiction and adoption laws of that state.

Prospective clients should be forewarned not to rely on this information which, at best, is a snapshot of a complicated legal process. Interstate adoptions may have entirely different legal requirements including compliance with the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children.

 

The Law Offices of Karen R. Lane
Specializing in:
Independent Adoptions; Agency Adoptions; Interstate Adoptions; Adult Adoptions;
Step-Parent Adoptions; Guardianships; Mediation

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