Adopting a child into your family is a time for joy and celebration. Navigating your way through the legal requirements can be complex and confusing. To avoid any legal pitfalls, expensive delays or even adoption denial you need an attorney that knows the ins and outs of the adoption process. Durant and his staff can answer all your questions about adoptions and advise you of your options. We can handle the following adoptions proceedings:

Step-parent Adoption – when step-parent and child want to make the relationship legally binding. These are often simple, straight-forward cases when the non-custodial biological parent consents to the adoption.

Grandparent Adoption – when a grand parent and child wish to establish a legal parent-child relationship. When the parents are unable or unwilling to parent their child, an alternative to adoption for the grandparent would be to establish legal guardianship.

Inter-Family Adoptions – if another biological member of the family wishes to parent the child both parents must be willing to give up their parental rights and consent to the adoption. Again, legal guardianship may be an alternative to adoption.

Name Changes – when the adopted child or other family members want to legally change their name, we can help file the necessary paperwork.

Termination of Parental Rights – when a parent or a third party wishes to terminate a parent’s parental rights we can guide you through the process.

Unlike adoptions, legal guardianships are not permanent arrangements and end when the child turns 18 years of age. We listen to you and evaluate your unique situation to determine if guardianship or adoption is the best option for you and your child.

Please call 816-836-9911 for a free consultation and speak with a qualified attorney.