Adoptions
Adoption is the permanent, legal transfer of parental rights from the birth parents to the adoptive parent(s). Once completed, the adoptive parent(s) have all the legal rights and obligations of a birth parent, and in the eyes of the law, the adopted child is treated the same as a biological child of the adoptive parent(s).
We represent both the adoptive parents and birth parents in all types of adoption proceedings, including:
- Stepparent Adoption: The most common form of adoption. It extinguishes the non-custodial birth parents’ visitation rights and obligation to pay child support.
- Foster Care Adoption: While there is a greater chance the child has suffered abuse or neglect, Washington has programs and incentives designed to encourage the adoption of foster children.
- Open Adoption: In an open adoption, the adoptive parent(s) enters into a binding agreement granting one or both birth parents the right to certain information about the child (photographs, report cards, letters) and/or future contact. The terms are subject to negotiation and must be approved by the Court.
- Private Agency Adoption: Adoptions arranged through an agency licensed by the State.
- Independent Adoptions: Private adoption without an agency in which the adoptive parent(s) and the birth parents are in contact directly or through a friend, attorney or other intermediary.
We can assist with all issues that may arise in the adoption process, including:
- Obtaining consents to terminate parental rights of the birth mother and all potential birth fathers.
- Initiating a termination proceeding, if necessary, because the birth father will not consent or is unknown.
- Obtaining the birth parents’ medical and social history.
- Obtaining temporary custody of the child pending finalization of the adoption.
- Obtaining a pre-placement report or “home study” by a qualified social worker.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (425) 455-5513, toll free at (877) 455-5513, or info@palmerlegal.com.