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Adopting a child can be an anxious yet exciting experience for those seeking to become parents. While undoubtedly rewarding, the adoption process can be relatively tricky and legally complicated, with each state establishing specific requirements to be followed when adopting a child.

Like so many others, if you want to adopt a child, but are overwhelmed or unsure of the requirements to do so, you could reach out to a seasoned legal professional for assistance. A Greenwood Village adoption lawyer could provide you and your spouse with the advocacy and advice necessary to adopt a child successfully. The Colorado Lawyer Team can help make your adoption smoother and help you through each stage of the process.

Types of Adoptions

For those looking to adopt in the United States, there are several different options available. Choosing the appropriate adoption type will depend on various factors (e.g., age of adoptee, circumstances of the couple wanting to adopt, etc.). The most prominent types of adoptions include the following:

  • Infant adoption
  • Adoption of a child currently in the foster care system
  • Independent adoption (i.e., adoption without assistance of an agency)
  • Adoption of a child through placement in a household via foster care
  • Adoption by a stepparent
  • Adoption by a family member

In addition to the different types of adoptions available, couples looking to adopt will also need to consider whether it will be an open or closed adoption. An open adoption is when the birth parents and the adoptive parents arrange communications and exchanges between the child and their birth parents to be allowed while under the care of their adoptive parents. A closed adoption is when the birth parents and adoptive parents remain anonymous to each other, and no contact is shared between the two.

Adoption Laws in Colorado

In Colorado, certain adults, as well as children, may be adopted by another party. Under § 19-5-201 of the Colorado Revised Statutes, a court may approve the adoption of a person who is older than 18, but younger than 21, to be adopted as a child within the state.

A child is eligible for adoption in Colorado if the parent-child relationship has been voluntarily relinquished or terminated by a court, or if there is written and verified consent that the child may be adopted as provided under C.R.S. § 19-5-203. Additionally, under C.R.S. § 19-5-202(1)-(5), any of the following parties may petition a court to decree an adoption:

  • Any person who is at least 21 years old
  • A minor
  • A person with a living spouse (or partner, in cases of civil unions) who is not the natural parent of the adopted child or has not previously adopted the child may jointly file
  • A partner in a civil union by means of a stepparent adoption under C.R.S. § 19-5-203

In most cases, whether adoption will be successful or not will depend on the party or parties wishing to adopt and the circumstances surrounding the adoption, as well as the age and status of the adoptee. A knowledgeable adoption attorney can advise those seeking to adopt as to whether they will be able to do so and assist them with the process associated with the type of adoption sought.

Call to Speak with an Experienced Greenwood Village Adoption Lawyer Today

Adopting a child can be a wonderful and rewarding experience. However, due to the varying types of adoptions and differing laws between states, going through the adoption process can also be strenuous.

If you and your spouse are looking to adopt, the right legal advocate to assist you could be just a phone call away. Call today to speak with a Greenwood Village adoption lawyer and get the legal help you need.

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