Contested and Uncontested Adoptions
The end result of adopting a child is a happy event, but the process can be rocky. There are simply too many things that could go wrong to try to navigate the court system on your own.
If you are planning to adopt a child, the Santa Monica family law attorneys of Trabolsi & Levy can clear any legal barriers and help you address all the details to make the process as smooth and snag-free as possible. We handle stepparent adoptions and private adoptions, including contested adoptions and termination of parental rights.
Los Angeles Adoption Attorneys
Adoption law is not simply filling out forms. It is a nuanced area of the law that requires meticulous attention to detail and at times skilled courtroom advocacy. Our lawyers bring decades of experience in family law, including extensive experience with adoptions in greater Los Angeles and Southern California.
We primary handle uncontested and contested stepparent adoptions. We have also handled private placement and agency adoptions, international adoptions and legal issues relating to surrogate mothers and sperm donors.
Stepparent Adoptions: Making It Official
Formally adopting a stepson or stepdaughter is not merely a symbolic gesture. It establishes a legal relationship that confers rights and obligations on both parties, including parenting authority, financial support and inheritance. It may require that the parental rights of the biological father or mother be terminated.
If the natural parent agrees to relinquish rights, we can prepare and present the documents to the court to make it official. If the natural parent contests the adoption, we can initiate proceedings for involuntary termination of parental rights. We will assemble evidence and witnesses to demonstrate neglect, abandonment or abuse of the child, or behavior such as drug use, criminal activity or mental instability that is detrimental to the stepchild's welfare.
Termination of rights can be contentious and often sad, but it is in the best interests of the child to formalize stepparent status and provide that stability and support that has been lacking.
Contact Us to Discuss Your Adoption
We represent adoptive parents as well as parents contesting termination of rights or women who are giving a child up for adoption. We take the time to explain your rights, and we work diligently to make sure there are no surprises, now or later.
Call our Santa Monica law office at 310-584-7714 or toll free at 888-871-6245 or contact us online to arrange a confidential consultation.
