Specialist adoption solicitors for domestic adoption, step-parent adoption, international adoption, and adoption order applications. Expert guidance through the legal adoption process.
Free quotes • No obligation • SRA regulated solicitors
Adoption is a life-changing legal process that creates permanent family bonds. Whether you're looking to adopt a child, complete step-parent adoption, or navigate international adoption, the legal requirements are complex and the emotional stakes are incredibly high.
Without proper legal guidance, adoption applications can be delayed, refused, or face unexpected complications that prevent you from growing your family. The legal process must be completed correctly to ensure your adoption is legally secure and recognised.
Adoption law governs the legal process of transferring parental rights and responsibilities from birth parents to adoptive parents, creating permanent family relationships with full legal recognition.
Sarah and John's Journey: "We've been trying to have children for years and want to adopt. We don't know where to start with the legal process and are worried about being approved."
Mark's Step-Parent Adoption: "I've been raising my partner's daughter for five years since her father left. We want to make our family legally official through step-parent adoption."
Lisa's International Adoption: "We want to adopt a child from China but the legal requirements seem overwhelming. We need help navigating both UK and Chinese adoption laws."
Adoption solicitors guide you through complex legal procedures, ensure all requirements are met, and represent you in court proceedings. They handle paperwork, liaise with agencies, and protect your interests throughout the process.
Initial Assessment: Evaluation of suitability and legal requirements
Home Study: Social services assessment of adopters and home environment
Matching: Finding suitable children and placement arrangements
Placement Period: Child living with adopters before legal adoption
Adoption Application: Formal court application for adoption order
Adoption Order: Legal finalization creating permanent family bonds
Adoption requires specialist knowledge of family law, children's legislation, and court procedures. SolicitorConnect connects you with experienced adoption solicitors who understand the legal complexities and emotional importance of creating your family.
Adopters must be over 21, resident in the UK for at least one year, and able to provide a stable, loving home. There are no restrictions on marital status, sexuality, or religion, but adopters undergo thorough assessment including criminal record checks, medical examinations, and home studies. The child's welfare is the paramount consideration in all decisions.
Domestic adoption typically takes 12-18 months from initial application to placement, plus 3-6 months before the adoption order is granted. International adoption can take 2-4 years depending on the country. Step-parent adoption is usually quicker at 3-6 months if there are no complications or objections from other parents.
Step-parent adoption allows someone to legally adopt their partner's biological child, gaining full parental rights and responsibilities. The other birth parent must consent or the court must dispense with their consent. The child must have lived with the step-parent for at least 6 months, and the process requires court approval through adoption proceedings.
Yes, single people can adopt children in the UK. There are no legal requirements to be married or in a relationship. Single adopters undergo the same assessment process as couples, focusing on their ability to provide a stable, loving home and meet the child's needs. Many children are successfully placed with single adopters.
Adoption permanently transfers all parental rights and responsibilities from birth parents to adoptive parents. Birth parents lose all legal connection to the child, including inheritance rights. Their consent is usually required, but courts can dispense with consent if it's in the child's best interests. The child's birth certificate is replaced with a new one showing adoptive parents.
Adoption is a significant commitment that requires careful planning and expert legal guidance. Starting with proper legal advice can help you understand the process and improve your chances of successful adoption.
Adoption often involves multiple legal considerations. Our network includes specialists in:
Building your family through adoption is a beautiful journey that deserves expert legal support. Whether you're taking your first steps toward adoption or need help with complex proceedings, specialist legal guidance can help you achieve your family dreams.
Connect with experienced adoption solicitors who understand your journey. Our platform provides access to specialists who can guide you through every stage of the adoption process with sensitivity and expertise.
This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal advice tailored to your situation, please consult with a qualified adoption solicitor.
Connect with qualified specialists who understand your situation
Find Your SolicitorCommon questions about adoption and how our solicitors can help
<p>Adopters must be over 21, resident in the UK for at least one year, and able to provide a stable, loving home. There are no restrictions on marital status, sexuality, or religion, but adopters undergo thorough assessment including criminal record checks, medical examinations, and home studies. The child's welfare is the paramount consideration in all decisions. Financial stability and suitable accommodation are also assessed.</p>
<p>Domestic adoption typically takes 12-18 months from initial application to placement, plus 3-6 months before the adoption order is granted. International adoption can take 2-4 years depending on the country. Step-parent adoption is usually quicker at 3-6 months if there are no complications or objections from other parents. The timeline depends on assessment completion, child matching, and court availability.</p>
<p>Step-parent adoption allows someone to legally adopt their partner's biological child, gaining full parental rights and responsibilities. The other birth parent must consent or the court must dispense with their consent. The child must have lived with the step-parent for at least 6 months, and the process requires court approval through adoption proceedings. This permanently transfers parental rights from the birth parent to the step-parent.</p>
<p>Yes, single people can adopt children in the UK. There are no legal requirements to be married or in a relationship. Single adopters undergo the same assessment process as couples, focusing on their ability to provide a stable, loving home and meet the child's needs. Many children are successfully placed with single adopters, particularly older children and sibling groups.</p>
<p>Adoption permanently transfers all parental rights and responsibilities from birth parents to adoptive parents. Birth parents lose all legal connection to the child, including inheritance rights and decision-making authority. Their consent is usually required, but courts can dispense with consent if it's in the child's best interests. The child's birth certificate is replaced with a new one showing adoptive parents as legal parents.</p>
<p>Domestic adoption through local authorities is generally free, though adopters may choose to pay for independent legal representation (£1,000-£3,000). International adoption costs £15,000-£30,000 including agency fees, legal costs, travel, and government fees. Step-parent adoption typically costs £1,000-£2,500 for legal fees and court costs. Some employers offer adoption leave and pay to help with costs.</p>
<p>Post-adoption support includes ongoing social work support, access to adoption support groups, educational support for adopted children, and therapeutic services if needed. The Adoption Support Fund provides funding for specialist therapeutic services. Many adoption agencies provide lifelong support and guidance. Local authorities have duties to provide post-adoption support services based on assessed needs.</p>
<p>Birth parents can withdraw consent before the adoption order is made, but this becomes increasingly difficult once placement has occurred. After the adoption order is granted, it cannot be reversed except in exceptional circumstances. The court considers the child's welfare throughout, so late withdrawal of consent doesn't automatically stop proceedings if adoption is in the child's best interests.</p>
<p>Contact arrangements vary depending on the child's needs and circumstances. Some adoptions involve ongoing contact through letters, photos, or supervised visits, while others have no contact. The child's welfare determines contact arrangements. As children grow older, they may seek information about birth parents through adoption records or intermediary services. Modern adoption often includes some form of information exchange.</p>
<p>Extensive checks include enhanced DBS criminal record checks, medical examinations, financial assessments, home study visits, personal references, and interviews with family members. Social workers assess parenting capacity, motivation, understanding of adoption issues, and ability to support an adopted child's needs. The process includes preparation training and ongoing assessment over several months.</p>
Getting adoption help has never been easier. Our simple process connects you with the right legal expertise.
Tell us about your adoption situation and requirements using our simple enquiry form.
We connect you with qualified adoption solicitors who have the right expertise for your case.
Review proposals from multiple solicitors and choose the one that's right for you and your budget.
Work directly with your chosen adoption solicitor to resolve your legal matter successfully.
Expert adoption advice and guidance from our network of qualified solicitors
A comprehensive guide to adoption procedures, timelines, and what to expect from start to finish.
Learn about the most frequent adoption errors and how professional legal help can prevent costly mistakes.
Understand adoption fees, payment structures, and how to budget for your legal matter.
Join thousands of clients who have found the right adoption legal help through SolicitorConnect. Get free quotes from qualified specialists today.
Start Your Adoption Enquiry NowFree • No obligation • SRA regulated solicitors • 4.8★ average rating
Connect with qualified adoption specialists
Free quotes • No obligation • Expert help
