Since the adoption laws here in Pennsylvania are very broad, any person may adopt. Likewise, any person may be adopted regardless of age or their residential status. There are many different types of adoptions that can be initiated in the State of Pennsylvania. Learn more about each below.
Closed Adoption
A closed adoption is completed when a birth parent, or adoptive parents, decides that the birth parents will not have any involvement with the child after the adoption process is completed.
Open Adoption
When adoptive parents and birth parent decide to continue to involve the birth parent in the child’s life after the adoption, it is called an open adoption.
Stepparent Adoption
After the death of a former spouse, divorce or other situation, and upon remarriage, the proceedings for a stepparent adoption may be started. However, this is not always the easiest to complete, as the parental rights of the other biological parent (if he or she is still alive) must be terminated. Many individuals object to this, as they still want to have access to their child. I provide representation to clients exploring the option of stepparent adoption or attempting to block the termination of their parental rights.
Relative Adoption
Certain situations warrant the adoption of a child or individual by another type of relative, such as an uncle, aunt or grandparent. I can help clients understand their rights and if they are able to pursue the adoption of the child.