Lucas County Adoption Lawyers

Serving Ohio Families since 1999

Adoption is a life-changing decision that brings individuals, families, and children together. At Smith & Smith Law Office, LLC, our Lucas County adoption lawyers help guide our clients through this process with compassion, professionalism, and efficiency.

Our team understands that adoption is a complex legal process, which is why we work diligently to help make the journey as smooth as possible. Our team is here to provide the legal assistance and support you need. With our extensive knowledge in adoption law, clients can trust that they are in capable hands.

If you are considering adoption, contact our Lucas County adoption lawyers at (419) 842-4629.

What Are Adoption Requirements in Ohio?

If you're considering adoption in the state of Ohio, it's important to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements that may play a role in the process. Requirements include the following:

• The adoptive parent must be at least 18 years of age.
• Your household must have enough income to meet the child’s basic needs.
• Your household must have criminal background checks.

Adopting a child can be a complex and intricate process, and the specific requirements can differ depending on the details of your adoption. You might face various legal obstacles and challenges along the way, which can make it overwhelming to navigate the system on your own. That's where our Lucas County adoption lawyers come in. With our experience, we can provide you with the guidance and support that you need to make the adoption process run smoothly. Trust us to take the stress and confusion out of your adoption, so you can focus on welcoming your child into your family.

Can a Step-Parent Adopt a Child?

In Ohio, step-parents have the legal right to adopt their stepchild. Once the adoption is finalized, any and all legal rights or duties the previous parent had regarding the child are terminated. To begin the process, the adoption petition is filed in the court of common pleas in the county where the child, potential adoptive parent, or natural parent resides.

In addition to the adoption, the child's last name can also be changed, and a new birth certificate will be issued with the adoptive parent as the child's legal parent. If you are a step-parent considering adoption, consult with our attorneys to guide you through the process.

Can Biological Parents Take Back Their Child?

The adoption process can be an emotionally charged journey for both the adoptive family and the biological parents. Once the adoption is finalized, the biological parents have legally relinquished their rights to the child.

However, prior to the adoption being finalized, there are two ways in which parental rights can be terminated. They are as follows:

• Voluntary Termination: the biological parents choose to give up their parental rights and place the child up for adoption. This decision can be made for many different reasons, as no two adoptions are the same. The adoptive family and the biological parents must work together to navigate this process, often with the guidance of an experienced adoption lawyer.
• Involuntary Termination: this is a legal process where the state decides to terminate the biological parents' rights due to abuse, neglect, or substance dependency, in order to support the best interest of the child. The process ensures that the child is provided a safe and stable environment for their growth and development. Although it can be a difficult and emotional process, the state's aim is to prioritize the well-being of the child.

Dedicated to Serving Lucas County Families

When it comes to adoption cases, it's crucial to have an attorney who understands the complexities of the matter. Here at Smith & Smith Law Office, LLC, we recognize the intricate nature of these cases and are dedicated to providing caring and supportive legal services for our clients. Adoption can be an emotional time, and we strive to make the process as stress-free as possible. Let us guide you through this important journey and help you start your new family.

Contact us at (419) 842-4629 or fill out our form online.