Growing Your Family With Relative And Stepparent Adoption

Relative adoptions are the most common form of adoptions. They are also the most likely type of adoption to be contested in litigation, so it is important that a relative adoption be carefully evaluated before proceeding. If there are no objections, they can be processed in a matter of weeks. Shelley B. Ballard PC provides honest adoption evaluations for all of our Illinois clients. We respect your time and financial resources and will only enter litigation if we believe that you can win your case.

Inter-Family Adoption Requirements

The process for a relative adoption differs from that of a traditional domestic adoption or an international adoptionA home study is usually not required in a relative adoption, but an investigation, including a background check of the nonbiological parent, may be necessary. It is also necessary to notify the child’s birth parents of the proposed adoption, even if they are not listed on the child’s birth certificate. Their consents may be required. As part of an adoption, the child’s name may be changed and a new birth certificate may be issued upon the adoption’s completion.

With over 30 years of adoption experience, Ms. Ballard anticipates all of the process requirements and seamlessly executes details to avoid costly pitfalls. Our goal is to help you finalize your adoption as quickly and painlessly as possible.

To learn more about adoption, visit our adoption FAQ page that answers some of our clients’ most frequently asked questions.

Contact Our Attorney For Strong Advocacy

When you work with our firm, you acquire the experience of a lawyer who is a skilled negotiator and assertive litigator. We will carefully assess your case and employ the strategy necessary to achieve your desired result. Call our offices at 312-316-0912, or contact us online to schedule a consultation. For your convenience, we can meet with you at either our downtown Chicago or north suburban offices.