Different paths, different paperwork
Agency adoptions, private placements arranged directly with birth parents, stepparent adoptions, and relative adoptions each follow somewhat different steps, even though all of them end with a court order. In New York, both Family Court and Surrogate's Court can hear adoptions, and the choice can affect timing and procedure. Adoptions that cross state lines bring in additional approvals, and an international adoption also involves federal immigration steps for the child. Identifying which path you are actually on is the first job, because most of the requirements flow from it.
Consent and the birth parents' rights
Most adoptions turn on consent. A birth parent's rights end either through a voluntary consent or surrender, or through a court proceeding, and the rules about whose consent is needed and how it can be withdrawn are specific and time-sensitive. In stepparent adoptions, the position of the other birth parent is often the central question. Gather the child's birth certificate, any custody or support orders, what you know about the other parent's whereabouts and involvement, and records of your relationship with the child. If an agency is involved, keep every document it gives you, including any home study.
Questions settled early
When we first meet, we sort out which court is likely to hear the case, whose consent is needed or whether it can be dispensed with, and which background clearances and investigations apply to your household. We also check for any connection to another state or country that could add steps. Families sometimes wait to get legal advice until the paperwork is nearly done and then discover a missing consent or notice that sets things back. An early review usually costs less time than a late correction. We will tell you plainly what remains uncertain, including anything that depends on another person's cooperation.
