Nashville Adoption Lawyer
Adoption Attorney In Nashville, TN
If you’re going through the adoption process or are just in the beginning steps, you might be seeking guidance to help it move as smoothly as possible. A Nashville adoption lawyer has the experience to provide counsel through every step. They can also prevent common problems that can delay the process.
Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC: Seasoned Nashville Adoption Lawyers
With extensive experience in adoption laws, Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC understands how complex the adoption process can be. Our firm focuses on helping clients file with confidence. We know which errors can slow down the application, so our family lawyer in Nashville can help you avoid them. Our in-depth understanding of Tennessee adoption law also enables us to tailor a strategy to your specific circumstances.
In any adoption case, having someone on your side who understands the legal requirements can provide a crucial advantage. With years of experience, our team can work hard so you can grow your family.
Tennessee Adoption Laws
In 2022, there were 80,598 adoptions in the United States. To adopt in Tennessee, you must be:
- At least 18 years of age
- Financially able to care for the child
- A resident of Tennessee or have lived in Tennessee for at least 6 months
The residency requirements are much less restrictive if you’re an active service member. Nevertheless, all potential adoptive parents must complete a home study assessment.
Single individuals are allowed to adopt. However, married couples must both sign the adoption petition. Tennessee doesn’t have any current rules about same-sex couples adopting, but leaves the decision up to the adoption agency.
Some circumstances might disqualify someone from adopting, like having a criminal background or being financially unable to support a child. Speak with a Nashville adoption lawyer to find out how these rules may apply to you.
Different Types of Adoptions
In Tennessee, there are many ways to adopt a child. The priority is always the best interest of the child, so keep that in mind as you move forward.
Agency adoptions are among the most common types in Tennessee. The children in these agencies are either wards of the state, if it’s a public agency, or their parents have surrendered their rights to the private agency.
Independent adoptions facilitate adoption between private individuals, like doctors, social workers, or attorneys, and the parents. This still requires a home study.
Another type of adoption is a biological adoption between those who are related to the child. If a parent cannot care for their child, then a grandparent or other family member might step in. This type of adoption is a priority for Tennessee.
The final type of adoption occurs when stepparents want to adopt their stepchildren. To do this, the biological parents’ rights must be terminated. An adoption attorney can be very useful with this type of adoption.
Having the assistance of a Nashville adoption attorney throughout any type of adoption can make the process much easier. You don’t have to do this alone without any prior knowledge of adoption laws. Adoption lawyers have a deep understanding of how the process works in a legal setting, so they can provide crucial guidance throughout your adoption case.
Hire an Adoption Lawyer
If you are about to adopt a child, it’s crucial that you hire an adoption lawyer. They have a variety of skills that can improve the entire process for everyone involved. They can:
- Show you how to maintain legal compliance, both federally and in Tennessee.
- Explain state and federal adoption laws.
- Handle terminating parental rights in an ethically and legally sound manner.
- Manage communication between biological parents and adoptive parents.
- Prepare necessary petitions on your behalf.
- Represent you in the adoption hearing, either at the Metro Courthouse on Public Square in Nashville or elsewhere.
FAQs
What Are the Rules for Adoption in Tennessee?
There are a few rules for adoption in Tennessee. To become an adoptive parent, you must be at least 18 years old and able to financially care for a child. You must live in Tennessee at the time of the adoption. Active service members must have lived in Tennessee for at least 6 months and be current residents of the state. A home study must be carried out for everyone who wants to adopt.
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Kid in TN?
How much it costs to adopt a child in Tennessee varies widely. It depends on whether the adoption takes place through a domestic adoption agency, an international adoption professional, or a foster home. Adopting through the foster care system is generally much more affordable since most expenses might be covered by the state.
What Can Prevent You From Adopting?
Someone might be denied adoption for a variety of reasons. One is age. To adopt in Tennessee, you must be at least 18, and there might be an age limit, but that depends on the agency. People with chronic health issues might be disqualified. Having a criminal history could impact your ability to adopt, depending on the crime. You must also be able to financially support a child, so someone without the financial means might be denied.
How Long Does It Take to Adopt a Child in TN?
How long it takes to adopt a child varies depending on the situation. However, the Department of Children’s Services tries to finalize adoption within about a year. Prior to that, you must complete a home study, and that process can take a few months. Adoption takes time. A Nashville adoption lawyer can expedite the process or at least estimate how long your specific case might take.
Contact Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC
At Mathis, Bates & Klinghard PLLC, we began this law firm with the goal of having a small team dedicated to serving each client’s needs. We make it a priority to return your calls within 24 hours and can be available nights and on Saturdays. With extensive adoption experience, we are well-prepared to assist you throughout the adoption process.
To find out how we can help you, contact our office to schedule a consultation.
