Why You Should Work with an Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys Fellow
In the tumult of unexpected pregnancy and the profound decisions that follow, the expertise and compassion of an Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (AAAA) Fellow can be a guiding light.
Finding Strength When Your Family Doesn't Support Your Adoption Plan
Finding Strength When Your Family Doesn't Support Your Adoption Plan
The Road Less Traveled: Considering Adoption for Unplanned Pregnancy
Considering Adoption for Unplanned Pregnancy
Newborn Adoption Process: A Guide for Expectant Mothers
Newborn Adoption Process: A Guide for Expectant Mothers
Adoption Positive Language
Accurate adoption language can help stop the spread of misconceptions about adoption and reflect greater respect for everyone involved and their unique experiences. By using accurate language, we educate others about adoption. It allows us to have honest, meaningful conversations without inadvertently using judgmental or hurtful phrasing.
Adopting My Foster Child.
Hiring a Kansas adoption attorney to handle your D.C.F. adoption is a significant step in the adoption process. You'll need to consult with an adoption attorney sooner rather than later. It is even more critical that you don't take the advice of your well-intentioned Family Case Manager, Family Support Worker, or CASA regarding when it is appropriate to speak to an adoption attorney. They tend not to give sound legal advice on this topic.
Post-Adoption Contact Agreements
The Kansas Adoption and Relinquishment Act does not allow for post-adoption contact agreements (PACA) between adoptive parents and biological parents or even between siblings that are being adopted. The reasoning behind this is that it gives the appearance that the consent signed by the expectant mother or birth mother was not done as her free and voluntary act. In other words, the signed consent was accomplished by a future promise of contact with the child.
Age Requirement to Adopt in Kansas
Kansas adoption statutes do not have an age restriction. The law states, § 59-2113, "Any adult, or married adult couple jointly, may adopt any minor or adult as their child… except that one spouse cannot do so without the consent of the other." However, women thinking about giving their babies up for adoption or making an adoption plan for their baby will not select an individual or couple to adopt if the birth mother or expectant mother is not confident in the individual's or couple's ability to provide their babies with a stable, loving home, and bright future.
The Pre-Adoption Home Study
Yes, Kansas Adoption law requires an adoption home study. The home study must be filed with the court before the finalization hearing, along with any other clarifying documentation, post-placement reports, or other information requested by the court.
Adoption Agency vs. Adoption Attorney
An adoption law attorney is required in every adoption — regardless of whether or not another professional is used. But having the support of both an adoption attorney and an adoption agency together will almost always guarantee a successful adoption. You will have the legal expertise of an adoption attorney along with the support, education, and guidance of an adoption counselor. If you choose to work with an adoption agency, call me. I have worked with many agencies across the country.