Adoption is a great way to create a family. At Lambert Law we are prepared to help you explore this possibility whether you are adopting an older child or an infant.
There are four basic types of adoption in Washington State:
- Step-parent adoptions
- Second parent adoptions
- Foster parent (or guardian) adoptions
- Independent adoptions
Consider the following qualifications of adoption in the State of Washington:
- Age—A family attorney in Vancouver, WA can explain that legally you can adopt as long as you are over the age of 18. Judges, however, will want to know you are mature enough to deal with a child. A home study will also look at the ability of older adults or grandparent’s ability to care for a child long term.
- Financial situation—In order to adopt a child, you need to prove that you can supply basic needs for the child.
- Marital status—You do not have to be married to adopt a child in the State of Washington; however, a judge will look at whether the home is dysfunctional or not.
- Employment—There will need to be some kind of gainful employment within the home.
- Residence—You don’t have to own a home to adopt, but you need to have a home that is suitable and safe for a child.
- Legal parents’ consent—The parental rights of biological parents have to be terminated by the state, or the legal parents need to have signed a legal relinquish of rights before a child can be adopted.
- Working with a social worker—There will be pre and post-placement studies by a social worker.
If you have considered adoption contact Lambert Law today. Call 360-737-1473 or click here to schedule a consultation.
Read more about Crystal Lambert-Schroeder here and what others are saying about us at Lambert Law.