POLARIS LAW
PLLC
Are you a step-parent seeking to legally adopt your spouse's child, grandparents hoping to adopt your grandchildren, foster parents looking to adopt your foster children, or birth parents exploring adoption options with adoptive parents? Starting a new family or formalizing the bond within a blended family can be an immensely gratifying experience for any parent.
Adoption can be a complex process which is made much simpler by hiring an experienced attorney.
Washington courts require consent from birth parents (and potentially others) as well as from the adoptee if they are 14 years old or older. In cases where consent is not granted, adoption may proceed if the parental rights of the non-consenting party are terminated. Termination of parental rights necessitates evidence of significant neglect of parental duties and failure to act in the best interests of the child by withholding consent for adoption. Upon successful termination or parental consent, a court order will be issued relinquishing all legal
rights and duties of the parent (excluding outstanding child support payments).
Following this phase, the court will review all pertinent information, including any post-placement assessments, to determine the suitability of the adoption for the adoptee. If deemed in the best interest of the child, the court will issue an adoption decree in compliance with Washington Law.
Contact Polaris Law today to schedule a consultation for adoption.