Every family is different. As a result, there are multiple different types of adoptions depending upon the situation. For example, you may wish to adopt a child from another country, or you may be a stepparent working toward adopting your stepchild. Read on to learn more about the different types of adoption in New Jersey.

Different Types of Adoption in New Jersey:

  • Domestic adoption: This is when you, a United States resident, choose to adopt a child who was born in the United States. Open domestic adoptions are becoming increasingly popular. Open domestic adoption is when your adoptive child’s birth parents consent to the adoption and have ongoing contact with the child. 
  • International adoption: Adopting a child from another country is known as an international adoption. This process usually requires a good amount of travel, so it is important you understand all it entails before proceeding.
  • LGBT adoption: In New Jersey, LGBT couples are legally allowed to adopt a child. 
  • Second-parent adoption:  A same-sex parent may adopt his or her biological or adoptive child without terminating the first parent’s legal status as a parent.
  • Private adoption: A private adoption is when you are either adopting a child through his or her biological parent, or you are adopting a child you already know. You can usually avoid adoption agencies by taking this route. 
  • Step-parent adoption: This form of adoption requires either the consent of the non-custodial parent or the termination of his or her biological parental rights. Usually, the only grounds for this is evidence of abuse or neglect.
  • Adult adoption: This is when two or more adults wish to transfer inheritance rights and/or filiation.

What Does the Process Entail?

Adoption is an intensive, document-heavy process, as the courts need to know whether you are right for the child on several different levels. As a result, it is a good idea to have an experienced family law attorney to walk you through the process. To begin the adoption process, you will enter a 27-hour training period, known as the “Home Study.” You will also be required to submit various personal documents and information, such as your financial standing, employment, schooling, and medical references, to name a few.

Once you submit your application to adopt a child and acquire the state’s approval to adopt, you will have to meet and match with a child, have all involved parties give their consent to the adoption, and finalize the adoption in court. You will be subjected to home visits afterward to ensure your child is in a safe, positive environment.

If you are interested in adopting a child, contact our firm to discuss your options.

Contact our Firm

We understand how emotional and difficult matters of family law can be. If you need the assistance of a knowledgeable attorney to help protect your right to your family, please do not hesitate to contact our experienced firm. We are eager and dedicated to helping you through this difficult time. Our personal injury specialists at Greenberg & Walden, LLC are standing by for a free initial consultation. Call us at 201-528-6928

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