Adoption Attorneys

Adoption cases stand out in family law for the right reasons. These proceedings often conclude with a sense of joy and unity as families grow together. Our adoption lawyers bring the same thoroughness and care to these cases that we apply across all of our family law work.

We guide clients through petition filings, consent requirements, court hearings, and the finalization of adoption decrees.

Related Services

Divorce | Child Custody | Child Support | Guardianship

Our adoption attorneys assist families with every aspect of the legal adoption process. Here’s how we help.

Adoption Petitions and Court Filings

The adoption process begins with filing a petition that outlines the petitioner’s ability to raise and support the child. We prepare and file all required documentation and guide you through what the court will consider when evaluating your case.

Consent and Notice Requirements

Some state laws require written consent from specific parties before an adoption can proceed. We help clients understand who must consent, when consent can be given, and the circumstances under which the court may waive it.

Stepparent and Relative Adoptions

When a stepparent or relative seeks to adopt a child already in their care, the legal process has its own set of requirements. We help navigate the consent, notice, and court approval steps specific to these relationships.

Adult Adoptions

The adult adoption process differs meaningfully from adopting a minor. We advise clients on eligibility, restrictions, and what to expect from the court process when the person being adopted is 18 or older.

Adoption Decree and Name Changes

Once the court approves an adoption, it issues a decree that legally establishes the adoptive parent-child relationship and terminates prior parental rights. We help clients understand the finality of the decree and, where desired, request a legal name change for the adopted child as part of the process.

We know that pursuing adoption is a significant commitment, and we’re here to support you through the entire process. We help you move from your initial consultation to finalization with as little uncertainty as possible. Here’s how our process works:

• Consultation. We start with a free phone or Zoom consultation to learn about your situation, explain the legal requirements, and help you understand what the process will involve.
• Strategy and planning. Your attorney will assess your specific circumstances, identify any potential hurdles, and prepare a clear plan for moving your case forward.
• Filing and court representation. We handle all petition preparation, coordinate consent and notice requirements, and represent you at your adoption hearing.
• Finalization and next steps. Once the decree is issued, we help you understand what it means legally and assist with any related steps, including name changes or updates to vital records.

We bring the same preparation and attention to detail to adoption cases that we apply across all of our family law work. Our attorneys are familiar with the process, the courts, and the considerations that make each adoption case unique.

We’re here to help your family move forward with confidence.

Clients trust our family law attorneys to guide them through some of the most important moments of their lives. Here’s what they say about working with Turco Legal.

Manchester Office
(603) 932-5032
900 Elm Street, Suite 802
Manchester, NH 03101

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If you need support and representation, start by speaking with an experienced adoption attorney.

Understanding the adoption process before you begin can help you make better decisions along the way. Explore our resources to learn more about adoption law, what the courts consider, and what to expect from petition to finalization.

When can consent to adoption be given?

Consent may be given no earlier than four days after the child’s birth. The court may waive consent in certain circumstances, including when the child is over 18 or when waiving consent is determined to be in the child’s best interest. A child over 12 must consent to their own adoption.

What does an adoption decree do?

An adoption decree legally terminates the parental rights and responsibilities of the child’s biological or prior adoptive parents and establishes the adoptive parent or parents as the child’s legal parents. The decree is final and irrevocable.

Can an adopted child’s name be changed?

Yes. Along with the adoption decree, the court can authorize a legal name change for the adopted child if requested as part of the adoption process.

What financial obligations come with adoption?

Adoptive parents take on the same legal obligations as biological parents. This can include child support responsibilities that may extend until the child reaches a certain age, as well as potential contributions to the child’s higher education costs.