Adoption

Adoptions are some of the most rewarding work that we have the privilege of doing at Rouner Law Office. There are a variety of adoptions avenues available, all of which are equally important to the young children in need of safe and stable home.

The two most common adoption processes are Stepparent and Foster Care Adoptions.

Stepparent Adoptions

Stepparent adoptions are usually uncontested, meaning the noncustodial parent is willing to voluntarily relinquish parental rights or does not oppose the adoption. The home study requirement can be waived if both biological parents agree. Once the adoption is complete, the custodial birth parent no longer will get child support payments.

Stepparent adoptions can also be contested matters under certain circumstances – most commonly when a child has been abandoned by a parent for at least six (6) months.

Foster Care Adoptions

Foster children are typically in the custody of the Missouri Department of Social Services – Children’s Division because of problems with their birth parents.

Some foster children may return to their biological family when the problems are corrected. However, others will not because the natural parents’ rights have been terminated. In these cases, the foster children are available for adoption through the Missouri Department of Social Services – Children’s Division.

The Missouri Department of Social Services – Children’s Division offers a subsidy program to assist the foster family with the payment of costs associated with the adoption process, including attorney fees.

Rouner Law Office can assist with all of your Family Law needs.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.