Adoption of a child brings joy to all parties involved. The process of adoption, however, can be a long, tedious one. With the help of an adoption attorney in Mississippi, you may be able to bypass many issues that other hopeful parents encounter.
At William Wayne Housley, Attorney at Law, we will provide thorough support and careful planning and communicate with you throughout the process. We want our clients to be informed because we know you make better decisions that way. Contact us today online or call us directly at 662-844-5635 to schedule a strategy session.
What Does an Adoption Lawyer in Lee County Do?
An adoption lawyer is an essential part of any adoption process. They can assist both those looking to adopt and those placing their child up for adoption. They provide many services, including:
- Preparing and filing of all legal paperwork
- Continuous up-to-date legal counsel
- Locating and communicating with those involved in a private adoption or an appropriate adoption agency
- Negotiating conditions and terms of the adoption
- Representing the client at all court appearances
An adoption lawyer ensures all aspects of the adoption are legally compliant with local, state, and federal law.
Adoption Lawyer versus Adoption Agency in Mississippi
Many people prefer to work with both an adoption lawyer and an adoption agency. An adoption agency typically offers a range of services, including mental health counseling and matching prospective families with babies. However, the adoption lawyer is the person with the necessary legal skills and credentials to facilitate the adoption through the court system. Especially in cases where the parties don’t need assistance in being matched with a prospective baby or adoptive parents, just using the services of an adoption lawyer may be a less expensive route to take.
Legal Issues in Adoption
Legal issues can arise throughout the adoption process. The following are some of the most common problems that occur during the adoption process.
- Putative Fathers: In some cases, it may be possible for a man to become aware of the existence of his child and assert and petition to have his rights recognized adequately by the court. Relinquishment: In many jurisdictions, the birth mother has the right to withdraw her consent to the adoption up until the point she has actually signed a relinquishment of her rights. This can occur even after the adoptive parents have been selected and the child is born.
- Future Involvement: In cases of open adoptions, a situation may occur later down the line wherein one or both of the birth parents do not feel they are being allowed enough access to the child. They can then pursue the ability to spend more time with the child through the court system. Keep in mind that an open adoption means different things according to the state you live in.
Different states handle adoptions in different ways, and there may be legal issues that occur more often in your jurisdiction.
Why Should I Hire an Adoption Attorney in Lee County?
Adoption is a delicate matter that involves the lives and well-being of numerous people, not the least of which is a newborn child. A birth mother and adoptive parents must go into the situation with open eyes and a realistic expectation of what might happen. Hiring an adoption attorney means you have someone who knows how to check all the boxes to ensure the entire process is compliant with all governing laws.
Contact an Adoption Lawyer in Mississippi Today
At William Wayne Housley, Attorney at Law, we help bring the joy of a child into your life. We navigate the adoption system with ease and use our resources to make the experience as smooth as possible. Contact our adoption lawyer in Mississippi using our online form or by calling us directly at 662-844-5635 to get started today.