Adoption is a legally recognized way of forming a family. It is a judicial proceeding that transfers all rights and responsibilities of a biological parent, if known, to an adoptive parent. The procedures as set out by law are intended to protect the best interest of the children and the rights of parents or guardians. Persons desiring adoption have many choices.

Adoption is a way of forming a legal parent-child relationship. Through adoption, a parent other than the birthparent becomes legally responsible for the child's physical, financial, and emotional well-being. Adoption is gaining popularity, and has changed dramatically over the years. Further, it has a growing status as a positive way to form a family, unlike decades ago when adoption was often viewed negatively and kept a secret. If you are interested in adopting a child, please contact the Ulanowski Law Firm, P.L.L.C.

The easiest and least costly avenue for a step-parent to adopt is when the natural parents consent to the adoption. This often occurs when an absentee parent terminates his/her parental rights, thus extinguishing his or her child support obligation.

Under the law, both the custodial and non-custodial biological parents sign forms consenting to adoption by the step-parent and waiving further notice of the proceedings. The petitioning step parent submits to the court a Petition of adoption along with a request for the Court to waive any home study. A judge may waive or not waive the home study at their discretion.

Adoptions may be open or closed. In an open adoption, the adoptive parents agree there can be communication between the birth mother and the child. In a closed adoption, the parties agree that there will be no communication; in fact, the birth mother may not know the identities of the adoptive parents.

Any person who has resided in Minnesota for more than a year may petition to adopt a child. This requirement is overlooked by the court if it is in the child's best interests. A petition for adoption must be filed in all cases. This lengthy document spells out the basis for adoption.

No child may be adopted without the consent of the biological parents and/or guardian, unless a parent abandons a child or parental rights have been terminated. If the biological mother is under 18, then her parents' consent is also required.

Once the petition for adoption is filed, an investigation is conducted to determine whether the adoption would be appropriate. The best interests of the child govern. Following the investigation, a hearing is required. If the court determines the placement to be in the best interests of the child, then the decree for adoption shall be issued.

The Ulanowski Law Firm, P.L.L.C. will assist and guide you in this very important and critical process. Adoptions are very serious matters to all parties involved and we respect and honor that process. Please contact us to assist you in this life altering event. We enjoy helping people complete their adoptions.