Building a family through adoption is a profound and legally complex process. Our attorneys provide experienced guidance through every step — from initial filing to finalization.
Adoption is one of the most rewarding areas of family law, and our attorneys are honored to help families grow through this meaningful process. At Mandi Law Group, we handle all types of adoption proceedings in New York, ensuring that every legal requirement is met and that the process moves forward as smoothly as possible.
New York recognizes several types of adoption: private placement adoptions, where the birth parent(s) directly place the child with the adoptive parent(s); agency adoptions, where a licensed adoption agency facilitates the placement; stepparent adoptions, where a stepparent legally adopts their spouse's child; and second-parent adoptions, where a partner adopts the other partner's biological or adopted child without terminating the first parent's rights.
The adoption process involves multiple legal steps, including filing a petition with the court, obtaining the consent of birth parents or terminating parental rights, completing a home study conducted by a licensed agency, and appearing before a judge for finalization. Each type of adoption has specific requirements, and the timeline can vary depending on the circumstances.
Our attorneys guide adoptive parents through every aspect of the process, addressing legal requirements, coordinating with agencies and social workers, and advocating for the family in court.
In a private placement adoption, the birth parent(s) select the adoptive parent(s) directly, without the involvement of an adoption agency. These adoptions require judicial approval and compliance with New York's adoption laws, including proper notice to all necessary parties, background checks, and a home study. The birth parent(s) must provide informed consent, which in New York cannot be given until after the child is born. Our attorneys handle all legal aspects of private adoptions, from drafting consent documents to representing the adoptive parents in court.
Stepparent adoption allows a stepparent to legally adopt their spouse's child, creating a full legal parent-child relationship. Second-parent adoption allows a partner (married or unmarried) to adopt the other partner's child without terminating the first parent's rights. Both types of adoption provide important legal protections, including inheritance rights, the right to make medical decisions, and the right to custody and visitation if the couple separates. Our attorneys streamline the process and ensure that all requirements are met for a successful finalization.
When an adoption involves a child from another state, the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) must be complied with before the child can be placed in New York. International adoptions involve additional layers of complexity, including compliance with the laws of the child's country of origin, U.S. immigration requirements, and the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption (for Hague Convention countries). Our attorneys have experience navigating these complex requirements and coordinating with agencies, immigration authorities, and foreign legal systems.
After an adoption is finalized, various legal matters may arise, including obtaining a new birth certificate, updating the child's Social Security records, addressing inheritance and estate planning concerns, and navigating contact agreements with birth families. Our attorneys provide ongoing support for adoptive families and can assist with any post-adoption legal needs that arise.
Important Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is unique, and outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances. Contact our office to discuss your particular situation.
The timeline varies by type. A stepparent adoption may take 3-6 months. Private and agency adoptions typically take 6-18 months or longer. International adoptions may take 1-3 years depending on the country. Our attorneys work to move the process as efficiently as possible.
In New York, birth parents can revoke their consent within a limited timeframe. The rules depend on the type of adoption. For judicial consent, revocation is very limited after the consent is given. For extra-judicial consent, there is typically a 45-day revocation period. Our attorneys explain all consent requirements and timelines.
Generally, yes. Both birth parents must consent or their rights must be terminated by the court. However, consent may not be required from a parent who has abandoned the child, had their rights previously terminated, or is unable to be identified or located after diligent search.
Every family situation is unique, and the information on this page is general in nature. Schedule a confidential consultation with our experienced family law attorneys to discuss your specific circumstances and learn about your options.