Expanding your family through adoption can be a fulfilling and exciting experience. Unfortunately, it can also be a long and cumbersome legal process. Before moving forward with the adoption process, be sure to retain a trusted Fort Collins adoption attorney who can see your case through from start to finish.
I offer comprehensive counsel to individuals and families seeking to adopt a child in Colorado. I understand the complex state and federal laws that govern this process and offer 20 years of legal experience to put to work for you.
To adopt a child in Colorado, you must meet a few basic requirements. Generally speaking, the state believes that it is in a child’s best interest to remain with their biological parents whenever possible. That said, every child deserves a permanent home and loving parents – and the state will facilitate this when a child cannot remain with their biological parents whenever possible.
To adopt a child, you must:
Be at least 21 years old
Not have been committed of a crime against children
Your marital status and home ownership status will not be considered when you apply to adopt.
Types of Adoption
Colorado recognizes several types of adoption, each with its own requirements and complexities. I have helped finalize numerous adoptions both within Colorado and internationally.
I assist clients with:
Stepparent adoptions: This is when a stepparent formalizes their relationship with a stepchild. The stepchild’s biological parent must terminate their parental rights before the stepparent can adopt the child.
Kinship adoptions: A kindship adoption is when a close relative – such as a grandparent, aunt, or uncle – becomes a child’s legal parent. You must have had physical custody of the child for at least one year before the adoption can proceed.
Second parent adoptions: A parent in a same-sex relationship – even if the couple is unmarried – can become a child’s legal parent through a second parent adoption.
Understanding the Adoption Process
Adopting a child is a life-changing decision that requires careful consideration and understanding of the adoption process. At Levi A. Brooks Attorney At Law, P.C., we are dedicated to helping families in Fort Collins, CO navigate through every step of the adoption journey. Here is a brief overview of the adoption process:
Initial Consultation: During the initial consultation, our adoption attorney will discuss your goals, preferences, and eligibility for adoption. We will also explain the legal requirements and provide guidance on the necessary documentation.
Home Study: A home study is a comprehensive assessment of your home environment and suitability to adopt. This process involves interviews, background checks, and home visits by a licensed social worker.
Matching and Placement: Once approved, we will work with adoption agencies or birth parents to find a suitable match for your family. This may involve reviewing profiles, attending meetings, and participating in interviews.
Legal Proceedings: Our adoption attorney will handle all the necessary legal proceedings, including drafting and filing adoption petitions, attending court hearings, and finalizing the adoption.
Post-Adoption Support: We understand that the adoption journey does not end with the finalization. Our law firm provides ongoing support and guidance to ensure a smooth transition and address any legal issues that may arise.
By choosing Levi A. Brooks Attorney At Law, P.C., you can trust that your adoption process will be efficient, effective, and focused on the best interests of your family. We are committed to helping you build the family you've always dreamed of.
Turn to Levi A. Brooks, Attorney at Law
If you have made the decision to adopt a child in Fort Collins, you have a lot of excitement ahead of you. Let me manage the legal work so that you can focus on growing your family. I work hard to help adoptive parents navigate the process quickly and effectively.
Call me at (970) 293-8371 to request a free consultation.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the requirements to adopt a child in Fort Collins, CO?
To adopt a child in Fort Collins, CO, you must meet certain requirements. These include being at least 21 years old, not having been convicted of a crime against children, and completing a home study. Your marital status and home ownership status are not considered when applying to adopt. However, it is important to note that each adoption agency or facilitator may have their own specific requirements, so it is recommended to consult with an adoption attorney for personalized guidance.
How long does the adoption process take in Fort Collins, CO?
The length of the adoption process in Fort Collins, CO can vary depending on various factors. These include the type of adoption, the availability of children, the completion of required paperwork, and the court's schedule. On average, the process can take several months to over a year. It is important to be patient and prepared for potential delays or unexpected circumstances that may arise during the process.
How much does it cost to adopt a child in Fort Collins, CO?
The cost of adopting a child in Fort Collins, CO can vary depending on various factors. These include the type of adoption, the services provided by adoption professionals, legal fees, travel expenses (for international adoptions), and any necessary medical or counseling expenses. It is recommended to consult with an adoption attorney or adoption agency to get a better understanding of the potential costs involved in the adoption process.
What support services are available for adoptive families in Fort Collins, CO?
Fort Collins, CO offers various support services for adoptive families. These may include support groups, counseling services, educational resources, and post-adoption services. Additionally, there are national and local organizations that provide support and resources for adoptive families. It is recommended to reach out to adoption agencies, adoption attorneys, or local community organizations to learn more about the specific support services available in Fort Collins, CO.
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