Washington Adoption Lawyers
Experienced Adoption Attorneys Helping Families Grow Since 1991
To adopt under Washington state family law, one or both of the child's biological parents must have had their parental rights terminated by a court. In some cases, this termination is involuntary. In other circumstances, one or both biological parents may terminate their parental rights so that the child may be adopted by a new family, relative, or stepparent. In any of these situations, it is advised, and even sometimes required by law, that prospective adoptive parents work with an adoption attorney.
If you are considering adopting a child, it is important to understand the process from beginning to end. Many adoption cases are complex and require ample guidance to ensure all parties are protected. Our adoption lawyers' goal is to both inform clients of their adoption options and assist adoptive families in achieving their goals.
Understanding Stepparent Adoption in Washington
Perhaps the most common form of adoption is stepparent adoption. In this proceeding, the parental rights of one parent are terminated to allow a child to be adopted by the other parent's new spouse or domestic partner.
This is a relatively straightforward process if:
- All parties involved are in agreement
- The proposed adoptive parent is approved by a social worker who conducts an investigation called a post-placement study
- The court gives final approval
This process can be considerably more arduous when a parent wishes to deny his or her consent to terminate parental rights. Our lawyers can help you understand what your options are in this situation, such as the possibility of forced termination of the other biological parent's parental rights.
With any questions, give us a call or contact us online to speak with an experienced Washington adoption lawyer.
Understanding Second Parent Adoption
A second parent adoption allows an individual to adopt his or her partner's biological or adopted child without terminating the latter's parental status. McKinley Irvin’s adoption attorneys have extensive experience handling second-parent adoptions, which often include:
- Preparing petitions
- Arranging required post-placement reports
- Representing clients at final hearings
Our lawyers are sensitive to the unique issues that often accompany second-parent adoptions, and welcome any opportunity to help LGBT clients secure their family's future.
The Experience You Want on Your Side
McKinley Irvin has the experience and resources you need to be confident in your representation. In adoption cases, attention to detail can be pivotal to the outcome, so you can be assured that no stone will go unturned. For couples or individuals looking to adopt, the first step is asking questions.
We extend the invitation to contact McKinley Irvin to schedule a consultation with a Washington adoption lawyer. Our goal is to help you understand both your rights and responsibilities as a prospective adoptive parent. Give us a call today.
Further Reading:
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Client testimonials
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"I knew I had a great team looking out for my best interest."My daughter is the sunshine of my life. I felt despair and a sense of helplessness on the day I was served. On the first appointment day when I arrived at the office and sat down with my lawyer, I knew I had made the right decision. From the beginning of my case to conclusion, I knew I had a great team looking out for my best interest (and the best interest of my child). Thank you McKinley Irvin!- Christine P.
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"Thanks for all the work for our family over the past year."Thanks for all the work for our family over the past year. We’re really glad you are on our side.- P.O.
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"I always felt my specific needs were very well represented and that I could count on David to be a trusted adviser."David remained very level headed and family focused throughout our proceedings. That said, I always felt my specific needs were very well represented and that I could count on David to be a trusted adviser during an otherwise difficult time.- T.M.
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"We would highly recommend the knowledgeable and dedicated law firm of McKinley Irvin to anyone who might be seeking legal services."In our search for a reputable law firm to handle my sister’s divorce case, we explored our options until we found the McKinley Irvin law firm. McKinley Irvin has, through our experience, proven to be compassionate, understanding and patient during the long term process of my sister’s case. Due to her disabilities she needed more than the legalities and McKinley Irvin was able to provide their knowledge as well as the assurance to my sister that her case would be handled in her best interest. We cannot begin to express our gratitude for all that the McKinley Irvin law firm has done for us. We would highly recommend the knowledgeable and dedicated law firm of McKinley Irvin to anyone who might be seeking legal services.- P.M.
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"I cannot imagine two people better able to represent me."Without David and Sam, there is no way I could have made it through this exceptionally difficult time in my life. I cannot imagine two people better able to represent me, nor a better firm to handle my affairs. You all have been wonderful!- M.L.
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"My attorney was very good in and out of the courtroom. Always kept me up to date on any issues that came up."My attorney was very good in and out of the courtroom. Always kept me up to date on any issues that came up and was very knowledgeable on custody issues.- R.R.
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"You all stood by me no matter how trying my case got. I always felt at ease knowing that you were there to guide me through this."I would like to give my sincere appreciation to Jennifer Payseno and staff. You all stood by me no matter how trying my case got. I always felt at ease knowing that you were there to guide me through this most difficult time. Thank you for not only being my attorney but becoming part of our extended family.- M.F.
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"Thank you very much for doing such a wonderful job. It has been a pleasure working with you."Dave, thank you very much for doing such a wonderful job. It has been a pleasure working with you.- R.C.