Adoption is a legal process where parental responsibility for a child is permanently transferred from their birth parents to their adoptive parents. This provides the child with a stable, loving, and supportive home environment.

To adopt a child in the UK, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be aged 21 or older.
• Be able to provide a stable and caring environment for the child.
• You can adopt as a single person, as part of a couple (married, in a civil partnership, or cohabiting), or as part of a same-sex couple.
• There is no upper age limit, but you must be fit and healthy enough to meet the needs of the child.

Our adoption solicitors can assist with:

• Domestic Adoption: Adopting a child placed by a local authority or UK adoption agency.
• Private Family Adoption: Adopting stepchildren or close relatives.
• Same-Sex Couple Adoption: Navigating the specific legalities for LGBTQ+ couples.
• Surrogacy Arrangements: Helping intended parents secure an adoption order when a parental order is not possible.
• International Adoption: Assisting with the legal implications of adopting a child from abroad.
• Post-Adoption Contact: Advising on establishing or managing contact with birth parents or family members.

The adoption process typically involves:

1. Initial Assessment: This is conducted by a local authority or adoption agency to determine your suitability.
2. Approval Panel: An adoption panel reviews your application and recommends whether you should be approved as an adoptive parent.
3. Matching Process: Once approved, you’ll be matched with a child who needs a permanent home.
4. Placement and Adoption Order: After the child is placed with you, you can apply for an adoption order to secure legal parental responsibility.

Adoption legally severs the ties between the child and their birth parents. However, post-adoption contact can sometimes be agreed upon if it is in the best interests of the child. This is often facilitated through an intermediary and could involve letters, updates, or occasional meetings.

Adoptive families can access post-adoption support, including:

• Advice and counselling.
• Financial support from local authorities in certain circumstances.
• Access to educational and therapeutic services for the child.

If you face challenges obtaining this support, our legal team can assist in advocating on your behalf.

Yes, step-parent adoption is possible. You must meet specific criteria, including living with the child for a certain period and obtaining consent from the other biological parent. If consent is not given, you may need to apply to the court to override this.

International adoption involves adopting a child from outside the UK. It requires compliance with UK law and the laws of the child’s home country. We can assist by:

• Advising on the legal requirements for international adoption.
• Ensuring compliance with The Hague Convention.
• Navigating the complex application process.

The adoption process varies depending on the circumstances but can take between six months and two years. This includes the assessment, matching, placement, and legal finalisation stages.

While it is possible to proceed without legal representation, having an experienced adoption solicitor can help you navigate the complex legalities, ensure your paperwork is in order, and advocate for your rights throughout the process.

• Expertise: Our team has extensive experience in adoption law.
• Compassionate Support: We understand the emotional and legal challenges and provide empathetic guidance.
• Comprehensive Services: From domestic to international adoptions, we cover all aspects of the process.

Get in Touch

For expert legal advice on adoption, contact HM & Co. Solicitors today.

📧 Email: info@hmsolicitorsltd.com
📞 Phone: 0207 112 8180