Our Attorney Provides the Basics of Adoption Law
Margaret Zylka House, Attorney at Law is providing an overview of adoptions in Pennsylvania in our blog this month. We offer expert adoption services to our clients. Opening your home to a new family member can be an exciting and happy time. Adoption can also bring turmoil and stress to everyone involved. Knowing every step of the process and when to file any and all paperwork is something you shouldn’t do alone. In this blog, you’ll learn about some of the basics of the adoption laws in Pennsylvania.
Who Can Adopt a Child in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania adoption laws allow any child and only certain adults to be eligible for adoption. Any unmarried adult, unmarried minor parent of the adoptee, or a married couple may adopt. Additionally, the adoption of Pennsylvania children age 12 and older requires the child’s consent to the adoption. There is no adoption age limit, age minimum, or marriage requirement in Pennsylvania adoption laws. All hopeful adoptive parents must complete the home study process with a Pennsylvania-licensed home study provider. The adoption requirements for adoptive families will also vary depending on the type of adoption they are pursuing.
Minors and Legal Adults Are Eligible for Adoption in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, there are few different ways people can adopt someone else. First, the biological parents of a minor must give up their parental rights before the child is eligible for adoption. A pregnant mother can create an adoption plan for her infant before she delivers. Under Pennsylvania adoption law, the mother must wait at least 72 hours after giving birth for consent of the adoption. In some cases, parents are terminating their rights, and can no longer care for their child. This can be an incredibly traumatic experience for children of any age, along with their family.
An adult adoption may occur once the potential adoptee reaches the age of 18 or older. Then the only consent required is that of the adoptee and, of course, the person willing to adopt them. There is no requirement to notify the biological parent.
Get Help from a Knowledgeable Adoption Attorney
Adoption is a permanent decision, so once someone adopts a child, all custodial rights go to their adoptive parents. Biological parents cannot regain custody. Thus, making the decision to adopt or give up your child for adoption is not any easy decision. Margaret Zylka House, Attorney at Law, handles all types of family law issues with compassion and expertise. We have advocated for clients and their families from all across Southwestern Pennsylvania. Your family deserves and depends on quality representation. Attorney House will hear your voice, and stand with you.
For more information on adoptions in Pennsylvania, give Margaret Zylka House, Attorney at Law a call at (724) 628-4955. Like us on Facebook to stay up-to-date with the latest news and information. We are happy to discuss more about an overview of adoptions in Pennsylvania.
