Every adoption is unique, and the legal process varies depending on the circumstances. We provide legal representation for a variety of adoption cases, including:
Helping You Navigate the Legal Path to Growing Your Family
Adoption is one of the most rewarding and life-changing legal processes, bringing families together and providing children with loving, stable homes. However, the legal complexities involved can be overwhelming without the right guidance. At The Law Office of Luna Stevenson, we are committed to helping prospective parents and families navigate the adoption process with confidence and ease.
Whether you’re a stepparent, grandparent, relative, or adoptive parent, we provide compassionate and experienced legal support to ensure the adoption is legally sound and seamless.
Types of Adoptions We Handle
Stepparent Adoptions
When a stepparent wishes to adopt their spouse’s child, the legal process requires terminating the parental rights of the non-custodial biological parent (if applicable). Our firm handles:
- Consent & parental rights termination
- Court filings & legal documentation
- Finalization of the adoption process
Relative & Grandparent Adoptions
When biological parents are unable to care for a child, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other relatives may step in to adopt. These cases often require proving that adoption is in the child’s best interest. Our firm can help with:
- Obtaining legal guardianship before adoption
- Navigating California’s preference for relative adoptions
- Handling necessary court proceedings
Private Adoptions
For independent adoptions, where birth parents voluntarily place a child with adoptive parents without going through an agency, we assist with:
- Drafting and reviewing adoption agreements
- Ensuring compliance with California adoption laws
- Coordinating with medical and social services
Agency Adoptions
When working with an adoption agency, having legal representation ensures that your rights as an adoptive parent are fully protected. We provide:
- Review of agency contracts
- Representation in legal proceedings
- Final adoption hearings
Foster Care Adoptions
If you are fostering a child and seeking to make your relationship permanent through adoption, we help you:
- Navigate the foster care adoption process
- Secure parental rights through legal adoption
- Work with social workers and agencies
Adult Adoptions
Adult adoption is a process where one adult legally adopts another, often for inheritance purposes or formalizing an existing parent-child relationship. We assist with:
- Legal paperwork and filing
- Court hearings and approval
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
About Adoption
How long does the adoption process take in California?
The timeline varies depending on the type of adoption. A stepparent adoption may take a few months, while a foster care adoption can take over a year.
Do birth parents have to consent to the adoption?
In many cases, yes. However, if a parent is absent or unfit, their rights may be involuntarily terminated by the court.
Can same-sex couples adopt in California?
Absolutely. California law allows LGBTQ+ individuals and couples to adopt with the same legal rights as anyone else.
What costs are involved in adoption?
Costs vary based on the type of adoption. Private and agency adoptions tend to be more expensive, while relative and foster adoptions have lower costs.
Do I need a lawyer for an adoption?
While it is possible to complete an adoption without a lawyer, the process is complex. An attorney ensures all legal requirements are met, avoiding delays and complications.
Why Choose The Law Office of Luna Stevenson for Your Adoption?
Experienced Legal Guidance
We have successfully handled different types of adoption cases in California and understand the intricacies of state law.
01
Compassionate & Supportive Approach
Adoption is an emotional journey, and we are committed to making the process stress-free and fulfilling.
02
Personalized Legal Strategy
Every adoption case is unique. We tailor our approach to meet the specific needs of your family.
03
Bilingual Legal Support (Mandarin & English)
We proudly assist clients in both English and Mandarin to ensure clear communication.
04
Transparent Fees & No Surprises
We provide clear pricing and a full breakdown of legal costs upfront.
05
Take the First Step Toward Adoption Today
Adoption is a life-changing experience, and The Law Office of Luna Stevenson is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are a stepparent, a foster parent, or looking to adopt a newborn, we will guide you through the process with care, expertise, and dedication.
Let’s make your dream of adoption a reality!
