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Adoption Attorney in Beverly Hills, CA
Deciding to adopt a child can be a beautiful and fulfilling experience. Unfortunately, the adoption process can also often be complicated and stressful. Consider making the experience easier for yourself by working with a seasoned Beverly Hills adoption lawyer. An experienced adoption law attorney can ensure you avoid mistakes during the process, streamlining your case so you can move forward with your family sooner.
The History of Benefield Faulk Law, Family Law Trial Advocates P.C.
Our firm has been serving the people of Los Angeles County and Southern California since opening in August 2004. Beginning in Rancho Palos Verdes, we have since established our headquarters in Beverly Hills with a large branch office in Culver City. We are proud to use the latest legal research systems and software to effectively represent our clients and keep them informed of any developments in their cases.
Adoption Cases in Beverly Hills, California
Adoption is a legal process wherein an individual assumes parental rights and takes on the responsibility of caring for another person, often a minor child. This formal process can sometimes be difficult to complete and should be treated seriously, as legal relationships and obligations are permanently changed.
In 2022, California reportedly had 15,349 children waiting for adoption across the state. This number was more than any other state that year, followed by Texas, with about 10,232 children reportedly waiting for adoption. Many adoption cases in the Beverly Hills area are processed by the Edmund D. Edelman Children’s Court, located at 201 Centre Plaza Drive, Monterey Park, CA 91754.
However, to learn which legal venue may oversee your case, be sure to consult with your adoption lawyer. There can be many steps within the adoption process, and since the laws involved can be complex and difficult to understand and navigate on your own, it’s strongly recommended that you work with a qualified and experienced family law attorney.
Different Types of Adoption in California
Generally, adoptions in California are either considered domestic or international. For international adoptions, procedures can vary depending on whether the child lives in the United States or overseas, or if the child was born in another country.
If you are trying to adopt a child relative who was born elsewhere but is currently living in the U.S., your adoption attorney may need to initially work alongside an immigration lawyer to avoid issues regarding citizenship. Other international adoptions may need to closely follow procedures under the Hague Convention and other foreign statutes, so it’s recommended that you consult with an adoption law professional to understand what may be required in your case.
There are several types of domestic adoption you may become aware of during the course of your case. Agency adoptions involve adopting a child through a licensed agency that focuses on child adoptions. Independent adoption is when a direct agreement is made between the birth mother and the prospective adoptive parent or parents without the use of an agency’s intervention.
There are also different legal procedures for adopting a child from the foster care system, a child who lives in a different state than you, or adopting an adult. Additionally, stepparent adoptions and same-sex “confirmation of parentage” adoptions also require a deep legal understanding of a skilled adoption lawyer.
Choose to Work With Us for Your Adoption Case
At the offices of Benefield Faulk Law, we understand how difficult and sensitive family law cases can be, especially those involving children, such as custody or adoption. Our legal team is dedicated to working tirelessly on your behalf to find a solution that’s both practical and gets you the optimal outcome possible, given the circumstances.
FAQs
How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Charge in CA?
It’s difficult to give an estimate of how much your California adoption lawyer may charge without assessing the details of your case. The most effective way to get an accurate estimation of your lawyer fees is to consult with a qualified adoption law professional. An adoption lawyer can review the details of your case and give an approximate estimate of how much it may cost in total, including attorney fees. Complex cases are more likely to be costly and time-consuming.
Why Is Adopting a Child So Difficult in California?
There are multiple reasons why it can be difficult to adopt a child in California. Generally, there are more prospective parents hoping to adopt than there are children who can be matched with them.
Adoption can also bring, understandably, various strict requirements to ensure the safety of the child and the success of the adoption overall. Some adoption cases may be more challenging than others. For example, adoptions that cross state lines or involve foreign-born children may be more complicated.
What Disqualifies You From Adopting in California?
If working with an adoption agency in California, there are a number of factors that may disqualify you from consideration. Prospective parents who are too young or too old may have a harder time being considered.
Some parties may be disqualified from adopting if they aren’t seen as financially stable or having a suitable living environment. Having a criminal record can also disqualify you from working with an adoption agency. If unsure about your eligibility, consult with an adoption lawyer.
How Long Does an Adoption Case Take in CA?
In the state of California, how long an adoption case may take to finish can vary greatly depending on the details of your situation. For example, if you have a pre-existing relationship with the child or person you wish to adopt, the process tends to be simpler and requires less time. However, each case is different, and the specific circumstances have an influence on how long it may take.
Experienced Adoption and Family Law Attorneys
The professional legal team at Benefield Faulk Law is here to work for you, help you feel less overwhelmed, and help you achieve success with your adoption journey. Don’t hesitate to contact us so we can set up a meeting with a qualified adoption lawyer for you today.
