Fairfax Adoption Attorneys

Guiding You Through the Adoption Process in Northern Virginia

It is a joyous occasion when you decide to become a legal parent through adoption. Whether you are seeking to grow your family by adopting a child, or wish to strengthen the bond with a stepchild, a Fairfax adoption attorney from Malinowski Hubbard can guide you.

Our Fairfax adoption lawyers can walk you through each step and ensure that your domestic adoption is legally compliant.

We can guide clients through a broad range of adoptions, including:

• Stepparent adoptions
• Close relative adoptions
• Private placement adoptions
• Adult adoptions

How Do I File for Adoption in Virginia?

The typical process for adoption in Virginia is:

1. You will need to file a petition for adoption with the Circuit Court in your county. A name change request for the child can also be included with the petition. If required, consents must be filed with the petition.

2. The local Department of Social Services will study your home.

3. If the results of the home study are favorable, the court will give a temporary order approving the adoption.

4. There will be more home visits, at least three times in the next six months.

5. The court will then give a final order approving the adoption.

How Long Does It Take To Adopt a Child in Virginia?

In Virginia, it takes roughly six months to a year to adopt a child from the U.S. foster care system. The Department of Social Services will conduct home visits to ensure the living situation is in the child’s best interests.

The average time it took to complete international adoption from Hague Convention countries ranged from 79 days to almost two years in 2011.

Do You Have To Be Married To Adopt in Virginia?

No, anyone may apply to adopt a child in Virginia. However, married petitioners will need the legal support of their spouse.

Our Fairfax Adoption Attorney Provides Hands-On Support Throughout Your Adoption

Our Fairfax adoption attorneys can help clients navigate the complex adoption process and provide hands-on guidance. From the initial screening and home study assessments all the way to placement and finalizing adoption papers, we work hard to make sure that the process runs smoothly. If obstacles arise, we work quickly and effectively to resolve them so you can move forward with your case. We will be there to offer support every step of the way .

Our Fairfax Adoption Lawyers Can Help You Grow Your Family

Adopting a child is an incredibly rewarding experience that can enrich and change the lives of everyone involved. Once a child is legally adopted, he or she will enjoy the same rights as a biological child. Whether you are a first-time parent or are growing your family, contact our Fairfax adoption lawyers today for legal support through the adoption process.

Reach our Fairfax adoption lawyers by calling (703) 935-4222. We proudly serve all of Northern Virginia.