If you are interested in adopting a child, it is important to understand your various options. Read on to learn more about different adoption options in New York.

What are the different types of adoption in New York?

If you are a New York resident interested in adopting a child, you may go through one of the following methods:

  • Domestic adoption: This involves someone who resides in the United States and adopts a child who was born in and lives in the United States. This usually necessitates the use of an adoption agency.
  • International adoption: Adopting a child who was born in and lives in a foreign country. This example of adoption often entails a lot of travel and can be more intricate than other types.
  • LGBT adoption: If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community and wish to adopt a child, this is commonly the route you will take.
  • Second-parent adoption: A second-parent adoption is a legal method that allows a same-sex parent to adopt his or her biological or adoptive child without terminating the first parent’s legal status as a parent.
  • Stepparent adoption: If you are a stepparent and want to adopt your stepchild, you must either get full permission from the child’s non-custodial parent, or the court must terminate the parental rights of his or her biological parent. This generally only happens if there is an indication of child abuse or neglect.
  • Private adoption: This type will be used if you are adopting a child you already know, or are adopting through the child’s biological parent. Generally, you will not have to go through an adoption agency to get your adoptive child.
  • Adult adoption: Generally, this exists between two or more adults. Its main purpose is to transfer inheritance rights and/or filiation.

What to know about the adoption process:

Courts take adoption very seriously and want to ensure that every child is going home to a loving and safe environment. As a result, New York courts will ask you for several things. For example, may need to consent to background checks, attend training courses, have home visits, interviews, home inspections, reference checks, and more.

In order to adopt a child, it is important to work with an experienced family law attorney. Contact our firm today to discuss your options.

CONTACT OUR FIRM

Matters of divorce and family law should be navigated with the guidance of an experienced attorney. If you need strong legal representation regarding matters of divorce, family law, and estate law, contact the Law Offices of Susan A. Kassel, P.C. to schedule a consultation today.