Charleston Adoption Lawyers

For many, adoption is the realization of the dream to create their forever family or to expand the family they have. When accomplished, It is one of life’s most satisfying and joyous experiences. However, the adoption process can be difficult, stressful, and rigorous. May steps must be taken from the filing of documentation to home studies in which you and your existing family will be reviewed to ensure that you can provide a stable, nurturing environment for a child. 

At Seibert Law Firm, we help future parents through the adoption process as well as provide legal services to birth mothers in creating the terms of adoption for their child and finding the right home for placement. We handle all types of adoptions, doing everything possible to streamline the often lengthy and complex process and bring it to a successful conclusion. We help at every stage from filing your initial petition to the final hearing when your parental rights and responsibilities for your child are legally finalized.

Arrange for a free initial consultation with a Charleston adoption attorney to discuss your needs and concerns. You can reach us online or by phone at (843) 428-6360.

Adoption in South Carolina

Adoption is covered under the South Carolina Code of Laws Title 63 Chapter 9 which is called the South Carolina Adoption Act.  This Act allows for the adoption of any child or adult within the state by any South Carolina resident. Non-residents may only adopt a child in our state under certain circumstances. 

Other rules laid out in the Act include: 

• The child’s needed consent for adoption when aged 14 or older unless they lack the mental capacity for such consent
• Home residency in which the adoptee must live with the prospective parent(s) for a minimum of 90 days before a final hearing on the matter can be held
• Naming the state agency involved in adoption matters as the South Carolina Department of Social Services
• Covering matters in which only cases of extreme fraud can a finalized adoption be challenged 

Types of Adoption

Many types of adoption are available for which Seibert Law Firm provides assistance, including:

• Adoptions within the state
• Interstate adoptions
• Agency adoptions
• Foster care child adoptions
• Special needs child adoptions
• Private adoptions
• Stepparent adoptions
• Adult adoptions
• Grandparent/relative adoptions
• Contested adoptions

Adoptions can be open or closed. Open adoptions allow a birth parent to remain in communication with their child even after parental rights have been terminated. Open adoptions allow adoptive parents to know the biological and medical backgrounds of their children. Closed adoptions do not allow this communication. 

Let Us Put Our Experience & Dedication on Your Side

If you wish to adopt a child or need legal advice about the adoption process, Seibert Law Firm can assist you specific to your case. Our family law attorneys work closely with prospective parents throughout the process to give you the legal guidance and emotional support you need to make your dream come true.