Albuquerque Adoption Attorney
Growing your family through adoption can be a wonderful experience. When you decide it is time to pursue adoption, an understanding the laws and the adoption process can be crucial to:
- Taking the appropriate steps at every stage of the process
- Avoiding mistakes that could sabotage your adoption
- Setting realistic expectations and achieving successful outcomes.
At Sutherland Law Firm, LLC, our Albuquerque attorneys have vast experience representing and guiding clients through every phase of adoption. Whether you are pursuing an open, closed, domestic or international adoption, you can rely on us for effective advocacy and crucial legal support.
Call 505-293-9333 or Email Us
for Essential Information about Your Adoption Case
We are ready to answer your questions, point out your options and explain the process that lies ahead.
New Mexico Adoption FAQs
Here are some helpful answers to common questions about New Mexico adoptions. Please don’t hesitate to contact an adoption lawyer at Sutherland Law Firm, LLC whenever you need specific advice, answers and guidance regarding your adoption plans or case.
What Are the Qualifications to Adopt a Child in New Mexico?
According to New Mexico law, a state resident seeking to adopt (i.e., an adopter) has to be approved by the court to pursue an adoption. New Mexico is among a handful of states that does not set a minimum age requirement for adopters.
Nonresidents can also adopt children from New Mexico as long as the child being adopted (i.e., the adoptee):
- Is younger than 6 months old
- Was born in or lives in New Mexico
- Has been placed by a licensed adoption agency or the Child, Youth & Families Department (CYFD).
Can LGBT Families Adopt under New Mexico Law?
Yes, as long as the above eligibility requirements are met, LGBT couples can be eligible to pursue an adoption in New Mexico.
What Is the Difference Between a Private versus Agency Adoption?
A private (or independent) adoption occurs between the birth mother or birth parents and the adopting parents, with the help of a family law attorney and without the assistance of an adoption agency.
In contrast, agency adoptions proceed through a licensed agency in the state and usually with the oversight of a state department (like the CYFD).
The best choice for your adoption will depend on your needs, circumstances and goals. In general, however, private adoptions are associated with fewer requirements, meaning that they tend to allow for more flexibility and a faster process.
Sutherland Law Firm can help you determine what option is best for you, in light of your situation and objectives.
How Do I Start the Adoption Process in New Mexico?
The steps you need to take to initiate an adoption will depend on the specific type of adoption you are pursuing. In general, however, some of the first steps that will need to be completed can include (but are not necessarily limited to):
- Filing a petition with the family court to obtain approval for your adoption
- Completing the necessary background checks
- Establishing fitness of physical and mental health
- Verifying income and financial resources
- Completing interviews and a home study.
Clearly, the adoption process can be complicated. Let an experienced Albuquerque Adoption Lawyer at Sutherland Law Firm, LLC help you successfully navigate the process so you can focus on your new child and growing family.
An Albuquerque Adoption Lawyer at Sutherland Law Firm, LLC Is Ready to Discuss Your Adoption Plans
Whether you are preparing for an adoption or your case is already underway, an Albuquerque adoption lawyer at Sutherland Law Firm, LLC is ready to help you.
Call 505-293-9333 or email our firm for more information about your case and how we can assist you.
Responsive, empathetic and insightful, our attorneys have the experience and skills you can count on for the highest quality representation and counsel at any phase of your adoption case. Let us help you anticipate and overcome the challenges of your case so you can obtain the best possible outcome and move forward with your life.