Baltimore Adoption Lawyer

Allyson B. Goldscher: Bringing New Families Together

Adoption is a brave and selfless way to expand a family, but it is rarely an option chosen spontaneously. Some couples pursue adoption only after years of struggle with infertility, while others adopt in order to complete a family already blessed with biological children. No matter the circumstances, a decision to pursue adoption is carefully considered and planned over time. That is why a failed adoption, which often occurs late in the adoption process, is so heartbreaking. Families have prepared for the addition of a new child, imagining for themselves a new future, only to have hopes dashed at the finish line.

Baltimore adoption lawyer, Allyson B. Goldscher, works tirelessly to ensure no couple will endure such a nightmarish scenario. As founding member at the Law Offices of Allyson B. Goldscher, LLC,  Ms. Goldscher devotes her time and attention to family law. Contact Ms. Goldscher today to learn how a Baltimore adoption lawyer can make all the difference in what is a lengthy and legally complex process.

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Agency vs. Independent, Open vs. Closed Adoptions

In Maryland, several paths can lead to a successful adoption. In an agency adoption, a child is placed by a public or private agency which is licensed by the state. Private agencies are typically approached by an expectant parent or parents who wish to give their child up for adoption. A private agency, normally run by a charity or social service organization, then goes about finding suitable adoptive parents. Public agencies, such as a department of social services, place children who have been deemed by a court to be in need of assistance and who are legally free to be adopted.

Independent adoptions bypass agencies altogether, are still closely regulated by the state. In an open, independent adoption, birth parents and adoptive parents communicate directly and develop the terms and timeline for the adoption together. With a closed, independent adoption, there is no contact between birth parents and adoptive parents. Instead, a third party – such as a Baltimore adoption lawyer – can serve as an intermediary, as well as work to file all relevant paperwork needed to finalize the adoption.

Among the most nerve-wracking times during an adoption is the consent and revocation period. Although laws vary by state, in Maryland a birth parent may consent to an adoption at any time after a baby is born. However, birth parents in Maryland have 30 days to revoke that consent. When a birth parent attempts to revoke consent beyond the 30-day window proscribed by law, it is imperative that an adoptive parent contact a Baltimore adoption lawyer immediately to review their options.

Courts Bring Adoptions to Completion

Regardless of whether an adoption involves an agency or is pursued independently, all states require certain steps before an adoption can be approved by the court. A home study must be completed to determine the suitability of the adoptive parents. An adoption petition must also be filed and an adoption hearing must be held.

Prior to the hearing a birth parent, legal representative or adoption agency overseeing the adoption must be given notice. The petition must adequately identify the child to be adopted, the identities of the adoptive parents, the legal reason for the termination of rights for the birth parents and findings by a social worker that the adoption is in the best interest of the child.

Baltimore Adoption Lawyer, Allyson B. Goldscher, Helps Maryland Families Contemplating an Adoption

It takes a special person to open their home and heart to an adoptive child. If you or a loved one hopes to expand a family through adoption, contact Baltimore adoption lawyer, Allyson B. Goldscher, at the Law Offices of Allyson B. Goldscher, LLC. Serving adoptive parents throughout Baltimore County and Baltimore City at our offices in Stevenson, Maryland, we can be reached at 410-602-9522 or via an online contact form to schedule your consultation today.

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