ADOPTION ATTORNEY IN OLYMPIA, WA

Understanding Adoption in Washington State

Adoption attorney services in Olympia, WA, involve legally establishing a parent-child relationship, granting full parental rights to adoptive parents. Governed by Chapter 26.33 RCW, adoption terminates birth parents’ rights and integrates the child into the new family. In Olympia, this process often includes home studies and court approvals to ensure the child’s best interests.

Washington recognizes various types of adoptions, ranging from domestic to international, with a focus on child welfare. Our firm helps navigate requirements like background checks and consent forms, ensuring compliance with state mandates.

Types of Adoptions We Handle in Olympia

As adoption lawyers in Olympia, we support multiple adoption types:

• Stepparent Adoption: Common for blended families; requires consent or termination of the other parent’s rights under RCW 26.33.120.
• Foster Care Adoption: Through the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF); we assist with transitioning from foster to permanent placement.
• Independent Adoption: Private arrangements between birth and adoptive parents, needing court approval.
• Agency Adoption: Via licensed agencies; includes domestic infant adoptions.
• International Adoption: Complying with Hague Convention and U.S. immigration laws.
• Adult Adoption: For formalizing relationships with adult children.
• Same-Sex Adoption: Ensuring equal rights under Washington law.

Link to related services like paternity or guardianship for comprehensive family planning.

The Adoption Process in Thurston County

Navigating adoption in Thurston County requires a skilled adoption attorney in Olympia. Steps include:

1. Pre-Placement Preparation: Complete a home study per RCW 26.33.190.
2. Matching and Placement: Find a child through agencies or private means.
3. Consent and Termination: Obtain relinquishment from birth parents.
4. Petition Filing: Submit to Thurston County Superior Court.
5. Finalization Hearing: Court grants adoption decree.

We guide you through forms on the Washington Courts website. People often ask: How long does adoption take in Olympia? Typically 6-18 months, depending on type.

Key Washington Laws for Adoptions

Adoptions follow Chapter 26.33 RCW, emphasizing child best interests. Key provisions:

• RCW 26.33.140: Consent requirements.
• RCW 26.33.260: Post-placement reports.
• Interstate Compact on Placement of Children (RCW 26.34) for out-of-state adoptions.

We review laws annually for updates, like recent expansions in same-sex adoptions.

Costs and Timelines for Adoption in Olympia

Costs vary: $2,000-$10,000 for domestic, up to $50,000 for international, including fees, home studies (~$1,500), and legal expenses. Timelines: 6 months for stepparent, 1-2 years for agency. Factors like contests extend this.

Challenges and How We Help Overcome Them

Common issues include contested adoptions or birth parent revocations under RCW 26.33.160. We handle terminations, appeals, and ensure compliance to avoid delays. For foster adoptions, we coordinate with DCYF.

Resources for Prospective Parents in Olympia

Access DCYF Adoption Services. Local support via Thurston County Family Resources. Contact us at (360) 357-5700.

Why Choose Morgan Hill P.C. as Your Adoption Lawyer

With a 4.6 aggregate review score on Google from 230 reviews, Morgan Hill P.C. provides trusted adoption services in Olympia. Our team has facilitated numerous Thurston County adoptions, offering personalized support.