One of the biggest decisions you will make is selecting your adoption attorney. Whether you elect to pursue a domestic or international adoption, the adoption process can be complex and long. Having an experienced adoption law attorney aide you throughout the adoption process will prove invaluable.
It can be difficult to select an adoption attorney with the myriad of options often available to you. In Kansas alone, there are close to 100 attorneys that include adoption within their practice. It is imperative that you find an attorney with the experience to skillfully navigate your adoption case.
The following is a list of questions intended to assist you in the important process of selecting an adoption attorney.
Qualifications
- How long have you worked in the field of adoption?
- What is your experience level, knowledge, and competence?
- What percentage of your total practice is related to adoption?
- How many adoptions have you competed?
- What services do you provide?
- Will you assist me in finding an adoption situation, in addition to handling all necessary legal work?
It is always best to find an adoption attorney with experience. The experience that comes from handling hundreds of adoption cases will prove vital in achieving a successful adoption. It is also helpful to find an attorney whose practice focuses on adoption law, rather than one who merely does adoption on an occasional basis. The focus on adoption speaks to the attorney’s familiarity with the practice, and in turn their ability to expedite and perfect your adoption.
Finances
- What is the average cost of the adoptions you complete?
- How do you bill?
- Is your fee hourly or flat?
- Do you require an advance retainer fee?
- If so, how much?
- What happens to my retainer in the event the birthmother changes her mind?
Finances are certainly important in selecting an adoption attorney. While it is great to cut costs, you should never go with a less experienced attorney simply due to their lower billing fees and this can cost you greatly in the long run. Rather, secure the representation of an adoption attorney that charges a reasonable rate commiserate with his or her skill level, and is honest and up front about all billing matters.
Working Relationships
- Why did you become involved in the field of adoption law?
- What is your general philosophy about adoption?
- Do you handle open adoptions or closed adoptions, or both?
- Do you have strong feelings about either type of adoption?
- Will you keep me up to date about my case?
- Do you promptly return phone calls?
- Do you see counseling for birth parents as helpful?
- When you are away from the office, will another knowledgeable person be available?
These are just a few of the many things to consider in selecting an adoption attorney. The most important thing you can do is take the time to interview your prospective attorney and focus on finding an attorney that is an ideal match for you.
McDowell Chartered: Kansas Adoption Attorneys Helping You Create Your Family
Selecting the adoption attorney that will help complete your family is a difficult decision. The Kansas Adoption Lawyers at McDowell Chartered understand the momentous importance of our job. We strive to zealously represent you in your adoption matter, assisting you in international, domestic, or interstate adoptions. We also help birth parents place their child for adoption to the perfect family. Our adoption attorneys have the experience and knowledge you need to achieve the results you desire. For excellence of legal services, call the seasoned adoption law attorneys of McDowell Chartered today at (316) 269-0746 for an initial consultation