We are experienced in drafting and filing the Petition for Adoption in the appropriate Circuit Court. The process can be detailed, rigorous and intimidating. Our Attorneys can guide you through the adoption process in Maryland courts, working to help make your family complete.

After preparing all necessary adoption paperwork for the final adoption hearing, we will represent you at the court hearing. We can also assist with post-adoption steps, such as updating birth certificates and advance planning documents.

Partnering with a licensed adoption agency in Maryland, our attorneys guide you through agency protocols, home studies, and matching processes. We advocate for you during negotiations and prepare all legal filings required for a successful adoption.

In independent or private adoptions, adoptive parents work directly with birth parents. Our team drafts and reviews all legal agreements, ensures proper termination of parental rights, and completes court filings to finalize the adoption.

When a stepparent or relative seeks to adopt a child, streamlining the process is often possible. We verify that all legal conditions are met, prepare petitions, and represent you at hearings to make the transition smooth for your family.

Adopting a child from another country involves both federal and state laws. Our attorneys coordinate with international agencies, handle U.S. immigration paperwork, and ensure compliance with Maryland’s adoption requirements.

Review your goals, family situation, and eligibility. Explain Maryland adoption laws, timelines, and likely expenses. Offer a roadmap outlining required steps.

Draft all necessary legal documents, including petitions, consents, and supporting documents. Ensure proper service of notices to interested parties. Review existing custody or guardianship orders that may affect the adoption.

File adoption petitions with the circuit court in your county. Compile supporting evidence, such as home study reports and consent forms. Represent you at the final adoption hearing, presenting arguments and answering judge’s questions.

Obtain a new birth certificate reflecting the adoptive parents’ names. Assist with changing legal guardianship or custody records when needed. Provide guidance on updating wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations for your child.

Call (410) 203-2223 or visit our Contact page to arrange a meeting. We discuss your family’s goals, review required documents, and explain the adoption timeline.

We guide you in selecting a home study provider and collect all necessary background information. Our attorneys prepare and file adoption petitions once the home study is approved.

After meeting Maryland’s minimum placement requirements, we file for a final hearing. Our attorneys prepare your documentation and represent you at the hearing to secure the adoption decree.

Once the court issues the adoption decree, we assist with updating vital records and offer guidance on any post-adoption legal needs, such as name changes or advanced planning document updates.

Timing depends on the type of adoption. Agency adoptions often take 12–18 months, while independent or stepparent adoptions can be completed in 6–12 months. International adoptions vary widely based on the child’s country of origin.

Expenses may include home study fees, court filing fees, agency application fees, birth parent counseling, travel (for international cases), and legal fees. During your initial consultation, we provide a detailed estimate based on your chosen adoption path.

Yes. Maryland allows single adults to adopt, provided you meet all home study requirements and demonstrate the ability to provide a stable, loving environment.

While not required, working with an adoption attorney is highly recommended to prevent legal pitfalls, ensure proper filings, and achieve a smoother finalization. Our team manages every legal detail so you can focus on building your family.