How do I find an adoption attorney? I have been contacted and asked this question many times. There are many websites you can use to find a reputable lawyer. I would recommend the following.
Super Lawyers - Super Lawyers is searchable by practice area and location. Super Lawyers are identified and rated by their peers as preeminent in their field.
American Bar Association - Locate the contact information for your local bar association. Your bar association will most likely have a referral list of adoption attorneys.
Martindale-Hubbell - Attorneys listed with Martindale-Hubbell are rated and reviewed by their peers. You can search attorneys by location and practice area.
American Academy of Adoption Attorneys- AAAA is a national association of adoption attorneys. The member directory can be used to locate an attorney near you.
It is common for attorneys to provide an initial consult for free. Use the initial consult as an opportunity to meet and interview potential lawyers. Also, I would contact local adoption agencies, advocacy groups, and adoptive parents to ask for their recommendations. It is important to do your research to locate a lawyer who will put your needs first. Adoption is a costly endeavor and legal fees should be kept to a minimum. I would ask any attorney you interview whether they bill on an hourly basis or a flat fee. A flat fee may be negotiable and more cost effective for you.
You will want to verify your attorney has successfully completed adoptions in the past and will be able to assure you proper paperwork will be filed and completed providing you peace of mind. Finding a good attorney may require time and research on your part. It will be well worth the effort.
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