Adopting a child is a wonderful and exciting event in one’s life. But, it is not always a simple process. In order for the adoption process to move smoothly and quickly, it is important to be educated about the different types of adoptions and the steps you may take along the way in order to best prepare for the process. Read on for more information regarding the different types of adoption in New Jersey.
What are the Different Types of Adoption in New Jersey?
Depending on the situation, there are many different ways to adopt a child in the state of New Jersey:
- Domestic Adoption: This occurs when an individual in the United States adopts a child who was born in, and lives in, the United States.
- Private Adoption: Typically occurs within the United States but without the use of an adoption agency.
- International Adoption: International adoptions can be more complex than domestic adoptions because they typically require a significant amount of travel to and from the child’s home country. But, international adoptions are also extremely rewarding. When it comes to international adoption, you will need an experienced attorney to help you through the process.
- Second-Parent Adoption: A second-parent adoption is when a same-sex parent adopts a biological or adoptive child without terminating the first parent’s legal parental status.
- Adult Adoption: Adult adoption generally exists between two or more adults, with the essential purpose of either transferring inheritance rights or filiation.
- Step-Parent Adoption: Generally, stepparents can only adopt their step-child if the child’s biological parent gives his or her consent, or if an incident of abuse or neglect has been proven, thereby terminating the biological parent’s parental rights.
- Family Adoption: Family adoptions are a bit different than the other options because there is already an established relationship between the child and the prospective adoptive parent. This often happens when one or both biological parents are absent or unsuitable to care for the child and another adult wants to step in and claim parental rights. Some of the family members that may wish to consider the adoption process include the child’s step-parent, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or others.
As you can see, there are many different types of adoptions depending upon your goals and circumstances. To begin the process, you should contact a skilled family law attorney. A family law attorney will be able to walk you through the process and help determine the best path for you and your family.
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