Adoption Lawyers in South Jordan, UT

Giving You the Representation You Need

Adopting a child can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Many children need loving adoptive families to care for them. However, some people may be intimidated by the adoption process. This can prevent many people from even attempting to adopt a child. This is why, if you or a loved one are considering adoption, you must consult with an experienced Utah adoption attorney. An attorney will be able to help prospective adoptive parents navigate the adoption process and make it as easy and stress-free as possible. 

Who Can Adopt a Child in Utah?

Many people think the requirements for adopting a child may be prohibitively restrictive. This is not necessarily true. Under Utah adoption law, a person must:

• Be a US Citizen or Permanent Legal Resident
• Be at Least 21 Years Old
• Be at Least Ten Years Older than the Prospective Adoptee
• Pass Background Checks
• Be Financially Stable
• Be of Good Health
• Complete a Utah-Licensed Home Study

While many people think a single adult cannot apply for adoption, this is not true. Single people may apply for adoption in Utah as long as they meet the above requirements. However, a single individual who is cohabitating with another person to whom they are not legally married may not apply for adoption. Similarly, a married individual must file for adoption with the consent of their spouse. A married person must apply for adoption jointly with their spouse and cannot file without their spouse’s consent or knowledge. As long as a person meets these requirements, they may apply for adoption. 

How do I Apply for Adoption in Utah?

Adults meeting the above requirements may apply for adoption either through Utah Foster Care or by working with an adoption agency. Depending on individual circumstances, each route presents its own potential advantages and disadvantages. 

Generally, working with a private adoption agency will be more expensive. However, a prospective parent will have greater choice in the child they wish to adopt. Working with Utah Foster Care is generally easier and less expensive. However, what child a person ends up adopting may be more restrictive and based on what children are currently eligible for adoptions. 

If you obtain the legal services of experienced Utah adoption attorneys, they can work with you to make an informed decision about which route will be the best based on your own desires, financial situation, and other factors. 

What is a Utah-Licensed Home Study?

Under Utah law, a home study is a requirement for a person to complete the adoption process. It is a comprehensive review of the person or persons interested in adopting. This includes documentation review by the state to ensure a child’s biological parents no longer have parental rights, interviews with the prospective family and any individuals living in the prospective household, background checks, reviews of financial and criminal records, and potentially more. 

The exact details of a home study may vary on a case-by-case basis. The process can take several months to complete. The home study aims to ensure that an adopted child will enter a safe, loving, and nurturing home environment with their best interest in mind. The home study process may be intimidating because of the amount of documentation required and the legal steps involved. Attorneys experienced in family law and adoptions will be able to work with you through the entirety of the process and ensure you have all the documentation required and are prepared for the interview and review process.

What Should I Do if I Want to Adopt a Child in Utah?

Adopting a child can be an incredibly rewarding experience for both the parent and children. It can be a way to either build or expand a family, a way to provide for a needy child’s future, and an opportunity for individuals who may otherwise be struggling to become parents. Adoptions in Utah can be difficult and time-consuming. All parties involved in adoptions must meet several court requirements and pass several checks before the state will allow someone to complete the adoption process. This is why having an attorney advocate for you is vital. 

If you or a loved one are currently considering adoption or are currently involved in the adoption process, don’t hesitate to contact RCG Law Group, located at 489 S Jordan Pkwy Suite 255, South Jordan, UT 84095. RCG Law Group is experienced in the adoption process and will be able to work with you to ensure the experience goes as quickly and smoothly as possible. The attorneys of RCG Law Group enjoy helping people build and expand their families. They approach the process with kindness, compassion, and a sincere desire to see children in need of a loving family finally find their forever home. If you or a loved one are currently considering adoption, don’t hesitate to contact the attorneys of RCG Law Group at 385-503-3663 or email them for a consultation.