Adoption comes in many forms. Some cases are very simple and straight-forward while others are more complicated.
In Wisconsin, the parental rights of the birth parents must be terminated before there can be an adoption. We strive to be sensitive to the needs of the birth parents and adoptive parents while keeping the welfare of the child as our top consideration. We are well-versed in all types of adoption.
Agency
In agency adoptions, a licensed adoption agency matches the birth parents and adoptive parents, provides education, counseling, home studies, post-placement services and takes guardianship of the child until the adoption is finalized. We work with the parties through the legal process — from filing the appropriate documents to completing the hearing required for the termination of the parental rights of the biological parents. Along the way, we provide legal advice to prevent mistakes that could lead to financial and emotional loss.
Independent
In independent adoptions, the birth parents and adoptive parents locate each other. An adoption agency is still necessary to provide the same services as in an agency adoption, and the same termination of parental rights procedure is necessary. But in this type of adoption, the court, not the agency, makes the adoptive placement
Relative
Birth parents may place a child for adoption in the home of a relative. If the relative has a completed home study, the adoption can be finalized immediately following the termination of parental rights.
Stepparent
When a parent remarries, a stepparent often assumes the emotional and financial responsibility of his or her spouse’s children. In many cases, especially when the children’s birth father is not involved with them, an adoption is a logical step. This ensures that the legal relationship between the stepparent and child is as secure as the emotional relationship.
Interstate
When a child is adopted into or from another state, the rules of the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children must be followed. This means that we need to comply with the legal requirements of both states. We are very familiar with interstate adoptions and the steps that must be followed to ensure a successful placement.
International Adoption
When a child is adopted from another country, we will assist with the child’s immigration to the United States, handle a termination of parental rights if necessary, finalize the adoption or re-adoption in Wisconsin, and obtain proof of the child’s citizenship from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Let us worry about the legal forms and papers that need to be filed. We will make sure that your adoption complies with international treaties and ethical standards, as well as federal and Wisconsin law.