Major Differences Between Adoption & Foster Care

Adoption is a legal word referring to transferring parental rights from the biological parents to the adoptive family. It is a complex procedure with various standards to complete to render an adoption successful. If you want to understand the adoption laws of Manassas, Virginia, and the steps involved, consult an adoption attorney from The Irving Law Firm. But first, understand the difference between adoption and foster care.

What Is Adoption?

Adoption is a process through which a person acquires parental responsibility for another person from that adoptee’s biological parents. Formal adoptions transfer all rights and obligations from birth parents to adoptive parents, including filiation.

What Is Foster Care In Virginia?

Foster care denotes that a court has awarded the legal custody of a child to the local Department of Family Services. Returning the child to their parents or guardians is the primary objective of foster care.

If they cannot resolve the welfare issue of the child quickly, the department will look for guardians willing to accept the child in their custody. If the child has been in foster care for a prolonged period and there are no close relatives to take care of them, the department will approach the court to put the child up for adoption and to revoke parental rights.

Things To Do Before & During The Adoption Process

Adoption is a legal procedure with several steps. Laws differ by state and are frequently hard to understand. If you want to adopt, you must understand the process, especially if it is your first time adopting.

Research

Do thorough research about your options and surround yourself with a solid support network. You can ask the opinions of your family and friends, or you may seek advice from an experienced adoption attorney at The Irving Law Firm.

Narrow Your Options

There are two ways in which you can adopt. You can go for an adoption placement agency or private adoption. Weigh their pros and cons, and choose what suits you and your adoptee.

Hire An Adoption Attorney

An adoption lawyer can help you safeguard your rights and give continuous legal assistance. They can advise you on the adoption process and help you avoid common problems, such as disagreements and incomplete requirements. 

Pass Home Study

If you adopt through agency placement, ensure you pass all home study requirements and get the agency’s approval. If you need help completing the requirements, approach an adoption lawyer. They can also give you some pointers on how to pass the home study.

Finalize Your Requirements

Collaborate with your adoption attorney to ensure you meet all legal criteria for the adoption. At this point, ensure all requirements are in order so you can proceed with the adoption finalization.

Prepare & Welcome Your Child

Before you welcome your new child, ensure the safety of your home. Create a pleasant and welcoming environment to make them feel at home.

Working With An Adoption Attorney At The Irving Law Firm

Adoption involves both emotional and legal responsibilities. Courts want to ensure all legal processes are followed because the bond between the adoptive parent and the child is crucial. So, it explains why adoption attorneys are often present in the adoption process. 

If you deal with an adoption placement agency, they will most likely talk with an adoption attorney on your behalf. If you pursue an independent adoption, you will be responsible for choosing and hiring your attorney. The adoption attorneys at The Irving Law Firm play a bigger role in an independent adoption. With an independent adoption, they are responsible for ensuring the completion of all legal criteria.

Another job of an adoption attorney is to protect the biological parent’s rights if they willingly give up their parental rights. The adoption attorney may assist in outlining crucial decisions and serving as your defender to ensure your preferences are honored. If you want to reconsider your decision and wish to raise the child, they can still help you.

Summary

Adoption is a legal procedure in which parental rights are transferred from biological parents to adoptive parents. The adoption attorneys at The Irving Law Firm may assist foster families in resolving adoption problems. They can also help adoptive parents before and during adoption by providing advice and counseling, ensuring that all legal requirements are met, and preserving the biological parent’s rights.

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