Adoption Solicitors

Specialist Legal Advice on Adoption

Adoption is the procedure by which the adopter becomes the legal parent for a child and obtains Parental Responsibility (PR). Adoption affects the rights of the birth parents, who will lose PR when the order is made. Orders for Adoption can be sought by couples or individuals adopting children through a private adoption agency or through the Local Authority following care proceedings, where a Placement Order was made alongside a Care Order. Step-parents may also apply for Adoption Orders.

If you require any support, Hepburn Delaney’s Adoption Solicitors can assist you through the process.

How to make an adoption order

In order to make an Adoption Order, the Court must be satisfied that each parent or guardian of the child consents to the adoption, or alternatively that their consent should be dispensed with. If the child is already subject to a Placement Order, the parents or guardian may not oppose the making of the Adoption Order unless they have permission from the Court. Permission will only be granted where there has been a change in circumstance since the Placement Order was made.

Child Custody Rights

As adoption affects the rights of parents and responsibilities to the child, there can be financial implications. For example, following adoption, the child is no longer deemed the legal child of the birth parents and as such, upon the death of the birth parents, would not have a claim to their estate.

Get in touch with our team of adoption solicitors today

If you are seeking advice on Adoption or Placement Orders, we offer an initial advice and objectives meeting.  In our meeting, we take the time to understand your unique family law situation and explore your goals and options moving forward. This introductory consultation allows us to gather important information, answer your initial questions, and provide you with a clear understanding of the legal process. Whether you’re facing a divorce, custody issue, or other family law matter, this meeting is designed to help you make informed decisions and feel confident in the next steps.

To contact us, please:

Call us on 01442 218090

Send an email to info@hepburndelaney.co.uk

Fill out our enquiry form and speak to one of our Adoption Solicitors today.