Whether you are looking to adopt or need legal assistance with adoption-related matters, this article will provide you with a comprehensive list of qualified adoption attorneys in the top 10 populated cities across the state.
Top 10 Cities for Adoption Lawyers in Delaware
Below, we have listed the top 10 populated cities in Delaware along with reputable adoption lawyers in each city. Click on the lawyer’s name to visit their website and learn more about their services.
1. Wilmington
- Dana L. Reynolds – Law Offices of Dana L. Reynolds, LLC
- Patrick J. Boyer – Boyer Law Firm
- Erin Kay Brignola – Erin Brignola Law
- Achille C. Scache – Scache Law Firm
- Julie H. Yeager – The Yeager Law Firm
2. Dover
- John R. Garey – The Law Office of John R. Garey
- Law Office of Karen Y. Vicks, LLC – Karen Vicks Law
- Schmittinger & Rodriguez, P.A. – Schmittinger & Rodriguez
- Tunnell & Raysor, P.A. – Tunnell & Raysor
- Bayard, P.A. – Bayard Law
Related Article: Illegal Adoption and Adoption Fraud: Be Careful
3. Newark
- Law Office of Tricia C. Gaudet – Tricia Gaudet Law
- Martin D. Haverly – Haverly Law
- Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C. – Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller
- Law Office of Susan Pittard Weidman, P.A. – Susan Weidman Law
- Wolf & Fox, P.C. – Wolf & Fox
4. Middletown
- Tari L. Bradley – Bradley Law, LLC
- Law Office of Michael P. Morton, P.A. – Michael Morton Law
- Parkowski, Guerke & Swayze, P.A. – PGS Law
- Morris James LLP – Morris James
- The Malm Law Group, P.C. – Malm Law Group
5. Smyrna
- Hoffman Law, LLC – Hoffman Law
- DelCollo & Mazzanti LLP – DelCollo & Mazzanti
- Rhonda T. C. Gibbens, Esq. – Gibbens Law
- Myers Law, LLC – Myers Law
- Lochrie & Associates, P.A. – Lochrie Law
Related Article: Delaware Adoption Laws: What You Should Know
6. Milford
- Law Office of James H. McAnaney, P.A. – McAnaney Law
- Hudson, Jones, Jaywork & Fisher, LLC – Hudson Jones Law
- Baird Mandalas Brockstedt, LLC – BMB Law
- Law Office of Heather M. Williams, LLC – Heather Williams Law
- Delaware Family Law, LLC – Delaware Family Law
7. Seaford
- The Law Offices of Vincent B. White – Vincent White Law
- Fuqua, Willard, Stevens & Schab, P.A. – Fuqua Willard Stevens
- Parkowski, Guerke & Swayze, P.A. – PGS Law
- The DeWeese Law Firm, P.A. – DeWeese Law
- Grady & Hampton, LLC – Grady Hampton Law
Related Article: What Does an Adoption Attorney Do? We Find Out
8. Georgetown
- Tunnell & Raysor, P.A. – Tunnell & Raysor
- The Smith Firm, LLC – Smith Firm
- Hudson, Jones, Jaywork & Fisher, LLC – Hudson Jones Law
- Serpe & Ryan, P.A. – Serpe Ryan Law
- Procino-Wells & Woodland, LLC – Procino-Wells Woodland
9. Elsmere
- Law Office of Michael Abram, LLC – Michael Abram Law
- Law Office of Brian E. Pugh, LLC – Brian Pugh Law
- Silverman McDonald & Friedman – Silverman McDonald
- Law Office of Stephen R. Dougherty, P.A. – Stephen Dougherty Law
- The Schwartz Law Firm, P.A. – Schwartz Law
10. New Castle
- Cooch & Taylor, P.A. – Cooch & Taylor
- Connolly Gallagher LLP – Connolly Gallagher
- Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP – Edelstein Martin
- Richards, Layton & Finger, P.A. – RLF
- Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, LLP – YCST
Additional Resources
- Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families – Adoption
- Delaware Adoption Laws – FindLaw
- Adoption in Delaware – Child Welfare Information Gateway
How to Choose an Adoption Lawyer
Choosing the right adoption lawyer is crucial for a smooth and successful adoption process. Here are some tips to help you select the best attorney for your needs:
- Experience: Look for lawyers with extensive experience in adoption law.
- Reputation: Read reviews and testimonials from previous clients.
- Consultation: Schedule consultations with a few lawyers to find one you are comfortable with.
- Cost: Discuss fees and ensure they fit within your budget.
Common Questions and Answers about Adoption and Hiring Adoption Lawyers
What does an adoption lawyer do?
Answer: An adoption lawyer specializes in the legal aspects of adoption. They provide legal guidance, prepare necessary documents, represent adoptive parents in court, and ensure that the adoption process complies with state and federal laws. They can also help with contested adoptions, step-parent adoptions, and international adoptions.
How much does it cost to hire an adoption lawyer?
Answer: The cost of hiring an adoption lawyer can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. On average, legal fees for adoption can range from $2,500 to $12,000. This does not include additional costs such as home studies, court fees, and agency fees, which can add to the overall expense.
How do I choose the right adoption lawyer?
Answer: To choose the right adoption lawyer, consider the following steps:
- Experience: Look for a lawyer who specializes in adoption law and has extensive experience in handling adoption cases.
- Reputation: Check online reviews and ask for referrals from friends, family, or adoption agencies.
- Consultation: Schedule consultations with a few lawyers to discuss your case and determine if you feel comfortable with their approach and expertise.
- Fees: Discuss the lawyer’s fees upfront and ensure they fit within your budget.
What are the steps involved in the adoption process?
Answer: The adoption process generally involves the following steps:
- Research: Determine the type of adoption (domestic, international, foster care, etc.) that suits your family.
- Home Study: Complete a home study conducted by a licensed social worker to assess your suitability as adoptive parents.
- Legal Representation: Hire an adoption lawyer to guide you through the legal process.
- Match with a Child: Work with an adoption agency or attorney to find a child available for adoption.
- Consent and Termination of Parental Rights: Obtain consent from the birth parents and legally terminate their parental rights.
- Court Proceedings: Attend court hearings to finalize the adoption.
- Post-Adoption Requirements: Comply with any post-adoption requirements, such as follow-up visits or reports.
Can I adopt a child without a lawyer?
Answer: While it is possible to adopt a child without a lawyer, it is generally not recommended. Adoption involves complex legal procedures, and an experienced adoption lawyer can help ensure that all legal requirements are met, paperwork is correctly filed, and any potential issues are addressed promptly.
What are the different types of adoption?
Answer: The different types of adoption include:
- Domestic Adoption: Adopting a child within your home country.
- International Adoption: Adopting a child from another country.
- Foster Care Adoption: Adopting a child from the foster care system.
- Step-Parent Adoption: A step-parent legally adopts their spouse’s child.
- Relative Adoption: Adopting a child who is a relative, such as a grandchild or niece/nephew.
What is an open adoption?
Answer: An open adoption is an adoption arrangement where the adoptive parents and birth parents maintain some form of contact after the adoption is finalized. This can range from exchanging letters and photos to regular visits. The level of openness is agreed upon by both parties and can vary widely.
What is a closed adoption?
Answer: A closed adoption is an adoption arrangement where there is no contact or identifying information exchanged between the adoptive parents and birth parents after the adoption is finalized. All records are sealed, and the birth parents and adoptive parents remain anonymous to each other.
How long does the adoption process take?
Answer: The adoption process can vary significantly in duration, depending on the type of adoption and individual circumstances. Domestic adoptions can take anywhere from several months to a few years. International adoptions often take longer, sometimes up to several years, due to additional legal and bureaucratic processes.
What are the legal requirements for adopting a child?
Answer: Legal requirements for adopting a child vary by state and country, but common requirements include:
- Being at least 18 years old.
- Completing a home study.
- Passing background checks.
- Demonstrating financial stability.
- Meeting residency requirements.
- Attending adoption training or classes (if required).
Final Thoughts
Finding the right adoption lawyer can make a significant difference in your adoption journey. We hope this guide helps you connect with skilled and compassionate adoption attorneys in Delaware. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact us.