An Attorney Who Offers A Wide Variety Of Adoption Services Throughout Michigan
Adoption creates the legal relationship of parent and child between persons who do not have a biological parent-child relationship. It is largely governed by state law, so the laws of adoption will vary by state.
Adoption is a wonderful option for expanding your family. Whether you always knew you wanted to adopt, have chosen adoption after struggling with infertility or are stepping forward to raise a grandchild, I am here to help.
Starting the adoption journey can be daunting. The laws of adoption are complex, and it’s crucial to have experienced representation. That’s why working with an knowledgeable professional is essential. As founder of The Law Office Of Teri B. Rosenzweig PLC, I offer the knowledge of years of ongoing education and training and the experience that only comes from handling many adoptions. You can be confident that whether you are planning on a direct placement adoption, stepparent adoption, relative adoption, guardian adoption, adult adoption, Michigan or interstate adoption, I know what needs to be done at each stage of the process.
How I Can Assist Your Family With A Direct Placement Adoption
A direct placement adoption is one where an attorney, instead of an agency, arranges the adoption and ensures compliance with all applicable laws. The prospective adoptive parent or parents find a willing biological parent or guardian who plans to place a child for adoption. The adoptive parent(s) are carefully screened, and a home study is performed by a social worker. After the child is born, the biological parent or guardian transfers physical custody directly to the prospective adoptive parent(s), and legally consents to the adoption by the adoptive parents she’s chosen, not to an agency or the state.
As your attorney and guide through this process, I can:
- Explain your rights and the applicable adoption laws and develop a legally secure plan tailored to your needs
- Provide referrals for your home study and counseling, if requested
- Refer the expectant parent or guardian to an experienced adoption attorney so they have their own representative through the process
- Make sure the expectant mother is getting prenatal care and is referred for preplacement counseling
- Determine what living expenses can be paid for the expectant mother and facilitate reasonable payments
- Assess any risks involved, and make sure the expectant parents’ rights are permanently terminated before the adoption is finalized
It is my passion as well as my job, and I’m honored to help all parties ensure that children have permanence in a home where they can get the love and support they need and deserve.
Answers To Frequently Asked Adoption Questions
Below, I have answered some questions I am regularly asked by prospective clients.
What is independent adoption?
Independent adoption is a legal process by which a parent or guardian having legal and physical custody of a child places the child directly with the adoptive parent(s), instead of having to relinquish parental rights to an agency. Independent adoption is also known as “private adoption” or “direct placement adoption.” Almost all states allow expectant parents who wish to place their child for adoption to choose the adoptive parents. Under Michigan’s adoption laws, attorneys may facilitate independent adoptions. Nationally, about half of all infant adoptions are independent adoptions.
Why do people choose independent adoption?
Both expectant parents and adoptive parents often prefer independent adoption to agency adoption. This option ensures that each party has their own attorney who is looking out for their interests. Generally, expectant parents want to have control over choosing who will raise their child. In independent adoption, they are the decision-makers regarding the future of their child and they are supported in making this decision.
Adoptive parents are often frustrated by criteria and requirements imposed by adoption agencies. Many agencies have lengthy waiting periods, and adoptive parents are often uncomfortable waiting for someone else to do the work of establishing their family. The greater sense of control and involvement in the decision-making process is the primary reason both expectant parents and adoptive parents choose independent adoption. They each want, and should have, an advocate to support them throughout this process.
What expenses should I expect?
This is a difficult question to answer, yet understandably a crucial one. Adopting parents will typically pay for their own attorney fees, expectant parent legal fees, counseling fees, and some pregnancy-related medical and living expenses. Expectant parents generally are unable to pay these costs. In addition, the adoptive parents must pay for a home study and may incur expenses in their search for expectant parents. These adoption-related expenses will of course vary from case to case. It’s important to work with an adoption attorney who knows what expenses are legally permissible. I can assist you in arriving at a budget and making sure that all expenses are properly paid with accurate records.
What are the risks involved in adoption?
When adopting, there is always the risk that, before parental rights are terminated, an expectant mother may change her mind and decide to parent the child. Or, a expectant father or other family member may try to challenge an adoption. Adoptive parents must willingly acknowledge and accept these risks. Pregnancy-related expenses that have been paid by the adoptive parents cannot be recouped if the adoption falls through. Counseling, education and your own assessment of your ability to handle risk will govern your decision.
Ready To Discuss Your Options? Let’s Get Started.
Teri B. Rosenzweig PLC is based in West Bloomfield Township, but I serve clients throughout Michigan. I am pleased to offer flat fees for my services as well as free initial consultations. To schedule yours, contact me today by calling 248-220-3870 or by submitting an online contact form.