Individuals & Families
Adoption
Guiding families through the legal steps of building their family through adoption.
Overview
What this involves
Adoption is a joyful and life-changing step, and it involves careful legal procedures that protect the child and every family member involved.
We guide adoptive parents through agency, private, stepparent and second-parent adoptions, as well as adult adoptions and the legal steps that can follow an international adoption, such as re-adoption or recognition in New York. We coordinate with agencies, social workers and, where relevant, immigration counsel.
How We Help
How we can help
- Agency and private domestic adoptions
- Stepparent and second-parent adoptions
- Adult adoptions
- Re-adoption and recognition after an international adoption
- Consents, home studies and court filings
- Coordinating immigration steps for children adopted abroad
Our Process
How the process works
A clear, structured approach, so you always know where your matter stands and what comes next.
Confidential consultation
We listen carefully and help you understand where you stand and what matters most.
Understand your options
We explain the legal routes available, their likely costs and timing, and our recommendation.
Prepare and negotiate
We prepare the documents and negotiate or mediate on your behalf wherever possible.
Court if needed
If an agreement cannot be reached, or court approval is required, we represent you in court.
Follow-through
We help implement the outcome and remain available if circumstances change.
Who It's For
Who we help
Prospective adoptive parents
Stepparents adopting a partner's child
Same-sex couples securing parental rights
Families who adopted internationally
Adults formalizing a family relationship
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
How long does an adoption take?
It varies with the type of adoption and court schedules. We give you a realistic timeline at the start.
What is re-adoption?
Families who adopted a child abroad can often complete a New York re-adoption or recognition, which provides a New York order and birth certificate.
Do I need an agency?
Not for every type of adoption. We explain the options and requirements for your situation.
This page provides general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different; please contact us to discuss yours.
Request a Consultation
Discuss your adoption matter with us.
Tell us briefly about your situation. We will review your inquiry and contact you to discuss how we can help.