Oklahoma City Adoption Lawyer

Adopting a child in Oklahoma can be very exciting, but there’s no denying that the entire process can take time and patience. Due to how tricky adoption laws can be, seeking out legal help is highly recommended. At Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC, we help families undergo the adoption process. We understand how frustrating and difficult it can be to traverse the law, which is why our qualified team can handle the process. Call us today to speak with our Oklahoma City, OK adoption lawyer.

Oklahoma City, OK Adoption Lawyer

Many types of adoptions exist, with one of the most common ones being stepparent adoptions. These often occur when one of the child’s biological parents is absent from the child’s life and agrees to the adoption. However, the entire process isn’t always smooth sailing, as the previous parents’ rights will need to be terminated. While such a termination can be voluntary, there might be cases where the biological parent contests the termination and thus the adoption.

Other adoptions include private adoptions and family member adoptions. During a private adoption, the birth parents of a child agree to the adoption, while in a family member adoption, a family member will adopt a child when one or more of their biological parents are unable or unwilling to remain the caretaker of the child.

Even when both parties agree to the adoption, there can still be legal hurdles. Many adoptions require court approval or at least the necessary paperwork. The entire process can be overwhelming for many, but one of our Oklahoma City adoption lawyers can make sure that everything is in place so that the adoption goes smoothly. Whether you’re just needing an attorney to draft up airtight adoption agreements or you’re dealing with a contested adoption, our team is just one call away!

Why Experience Matters In Adoption Cases

When undergoing any step of the adoption process, it’s advantageous to have our experienced attorneys on your side. As a client-centered law firm, we always operate with clients’ best interests in mind.

• Our team operates under these four pillars of values: truth, justice, respect, and empathy. It’s our mission to leverage the law to help our clients achieve the results they desire.
• We exercise care and understanding while providing our clients with realistic paths forward. We can help you explore all of your possible options and recommend which one we believe is the best strategy based on our many years of experience.
• Our partners specialize in family law, and we’re not afraid to aggressively advocate for our clients’ rights.
• Our attorney, Jimmy Lai, received the prestigious Top Central Man award for outstanding leadership and accomplishments while studying at the University of Central Oklahoma—an award only given to one student every year.

The entire adoption process can take time and patience, even when both parties give consent. Call Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC today to speak with our Oklahoma City adoption lawyer; we’ll work with you to help you obtain the best results for your situation!

Different Adoption Services We Offer

Adoption is a meaningful way to grow your family, but the process involves important legal steps that must be followed carefully. At our firm, we guide families through different types of adoption to help create stable and lasting connections. With the support of our Oklahoma City adoption lawyer, you can feel prepared to take the right steps for your circumstances. Below are some of the different adoption cases we handle and services we provide:

Stepparent Adoptions

Stepparent adoption is one of the most common adoption cases we handle. When a stepparent has taken on the role of raising and caring for a child, adoption can provide legal recognition of that bond. This process often requires the termination of a biological parent’s rights, and it involves specific filings with the court. Our team is here to work with you to prepare the necessary documentation and represent your interests throughout the process so your family can move forward with security.

Relative Adoptions

In some situations, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other relatives may step in to adopt a child. These cases often come up when parents are unable to care for their child due to illness, absence, or other reasons. Relative adoptions help keep children within their extended family, giving them stability and familiarity. We take the time to listen to your situation and support you in moving through the process with clarity and care.

Interstate And International Adoptions

When an adoption involves a child from another state or another country, additional requirements apply. These cases may involve approval under state or federal laws, as well as compliance with international treaties in the case of foreign adoptions. Our firm provides support in staying organized and addressing the additional legal steps so you can focus on welcoming your child into your home.

Adult Adoptions

Adoption is not limited to children. In some cases, adults choose to adopt another adult, often to formalize an existing parental relationship or create inheritance rights. While the process is usually simpler than other forms of adoption, it still requires court approval. We are here to guide you through the filing and hearing process so the adoption is legally recognized.

Preparing For Home Visits

Many adoption cases, particularly agency or international adoptions, require a home study. This review helps confirm that the child will be in a safe and supportive environment. We guide you through what to expect, explain the criteria evaluators look for, and help you prepare so you feel confident when the visit takes place.

Handling Paperwork And Filings

Adoption requires detailed paperwork, from consent forms and petitions to court filings and agency documents. Errors or omissions can cause delays in finalizing your adoption. We assist with preparing, reviewing, and submitting all necessary documents so your case stays on track.

Guidance For Consent And Termination Issues

In some cases, adoption requires consent from a biological parent or termination of parental rights. These matters can be sensitive and sometimes contested. We explain the requirements, represent your position in court, and support you through what can often be a difficult part of the process.

Court Representation

Adoption cases typically involve at least one court appearance. We represent you at hearings, present the necessary documentation, and advocate for approval of your adoption. Having our Oklahoma City adoption lawyers by your side helps you move through this stage with clarity and reassurance.

We’d Be Honored To Help You Grow Your Family

At Lai & Turner Law Firm PLLC, we are committed to helping you create lasting connections through adoption. Each story is different, and we recognize the importance of treating your case with care. Whether you are adopting a stepchild, relative, or pursuing adoption through an agency or international process, we are here to walk with you. With the help of our Oklahoma adoption attorneys, you can focus on building your family while we handle the necessary legal steps.

If you are considering adoption, we are ready to assist you. We will guide you through the legal process, explain your options, and work with you to complete the necessary steps. Contact us today to talk about your adoption goals and learn how we can support you in creating the family you have envisioned.