If you have decided to adopt a child, whether that means you are planning on adopting your new spouse’s child, you are adopting a family member’s child, or you adopting a child you have fostered for several years, this is an exciting time in your life. However, you may also be confused about the process and worried about taking all of the right steps. As much joy as adoption can bring a family, it is still a legal process that is best left to an adoption attorney in Florida, not just any lawyer. Adoption is a highly complex area of the law, and if things are not done properly, your legal rights as your child’s parent can be adversely affected, and your adoption can even be invalidated. This is why it is so important to work with an adoption attorney in Florida, rather than a general practice lawyer. Here are some additional benefits of working with a Florida adoption attorney.

Adoption Attorneys Can Facilitate Interstate Adoption

Many adoptions involve adopting a child who is located in another state. When this situation is present, a federal law called the Interstate Compact for Placement of Children applies. An adoptive parent cannot bring the child to be adopted across state lines without the consent of both states in accordance with this law. An adoption attorney in Florida can help ensure you understand these rules and that you comply with them.

Adoption Attorneys Can Ensure the Birth Parents’ Rights Are Terminated

To have a legal adoption, you must typically provide notice to the birth parents of your intent to adopt the child. Adopting the child will terminate the birth parents’ rights. Your attorney can ensure that all proper notices are provided and check for an unwed father on the putative father registry.

Adoption Attorneys Can Assist with Open Adoptions

Many adoptive parents want their children to have access to basic medical information and identifying information about their birth parents. A Florida adoption attorney can help parents navigate post-adoption communication agreements.

Adoption Attorneys Can Explain Taxation as It Relates to Adoption

Adoptive parents may not realize that they can receive a credit for adoption expenses. An adoption attorney in Florida can explain this tax credit and how to ensure you get the full benefit.

Adoption Attorneys Can Overcome Challenges

Adoption attorneys can help adoptive parents overcome challenges they may face, such as finding birth parents, overcoming a negative evaluation, or challenging a restriction regarding your marital status, religion, or sexual identity from an adoption agency.

If you would like assistance with your adoption case, contact The Law Offices of M. Katrina Muse at (904) 824-3355. M. Katrina Muse is an experienced Florida adoption attorney who wants to help you complete your family. She can answer any questions you have about the process and how she can help.

M. Katrina Muse
https://mkmuse.wixsite.com/muselaw