At Quackenbush Legal, PLLC, our attorneys can guide you through Utah's adoption process, ensuring that you meet all legal requirements and fill out the proper paperwork. We work toward a smooth transition at every stage of the adoption process. You likely have many questions or specific concerns. We invite you to schedule a free initial consultation by calling our Murray law office at 385-955-3533.
What Are The Different Types Of Adoption In Utah?
Closed vs. Open Adoptions — The key difference between an open adoption and a closed one is whether you can contact the birth parents. In a closed adoption, you will not have any contact or knowledge about the birth parents. In an open adoption, contact between the birth parents and adoptive parent is allowed.
Independent Adoption — This is when an intermediary is used to adopt a child. Independent adoptions are permitted in Utah, and they are often the easiest way to adopt a child.
Contested Adoption — During the adoption process, sometimes the birth parent, a relative or a person acting as parent may disagree with the adoption. They may voice their objections in person at the adoption hearing, in writing, or by sending it to the court within 30 days of the adoption notice. Contesting an adoption complicates the process, since two people are now making legal claims on the child. Having an attorney on your side in this situation can make all the difference.
Relative Adoption — Sometimes, due to circumstance, it can be necessary to adopt a relative. The adopted relative can be a child or an adult. To get started, you will need to get in touch with an adoption agency, which will assess your ability to support and take care of a child.
Stepparent Adoptions — For a stepparent to adopt kids, they will need the custodial parent's approval. Both parents must live with the child for at least a year before the adoption can be finalized.
Foster Care — The biological parents of foster care children no longer have legal guardianship; thus, children in foster care can be adopted. Whether you are a foster parent interested in adopting your foster child or interested in starting a family, adopting from foster care is a good option.
Get Trusted Guidance Today
The adoption process can be rewarding, but also complex. If you want to make sure you're taking the right steps to building your family through adoption, let our compassionate team of attorneys help you. To make an appointment, call our Murray office at 385-955-3533. You may also reach us online through our contact form if that is more convenient for you.