La Plata Adoption Lawyer

Trusted Legal Support for All Forms of Adoption in Maryland

Adoption is one of the most rewarding legal processes a family can go through. Whether you’re expanding your family through stepparent adoption, adopting an adult for legal and personal reasons, or welcoming a child into your home through private or agency adoption, the legal process must be handled with care. At Fanning Law, we help families across Southern Maryland navigate the adoption process with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

With over 30 years of experience practicing family law in Charles County, La Plata adoption lawyer William C. Fanning, Jr. offers trusted guidance through every step of the adoption journey. Our firm understands that while adoption is joyful, it is also a significant legal commitment that involves detailed procedures and sensitive issues. We’re here to make sure the process is completed lawfully and with the least amount of stress possible.

Types of Adoption in Maryland

Maryland recognizes several types of adoption, each with its own legal requirements and procedures. At Fanning Law, we handle a wide range of adoption matters, including the following:

Stepparent Adoption

One of the most common forms of adoption, stepparent adoption occurs when a married spouse wishes to adopt the children of their husband or wife. This process legally establishes the stepparent as a full parent and often involves terminating the rights of the noncustodial biological parent. If that parent consents, the process may be relatively straightforward; if not, the court must determine whether consent is required or whether parental rights can be terminated due to abandonment, neglect, or other legal grounds.

Adult Adoption

Maryland law allows for the adoption of individuals over the age of 18. Adult adoption is often pursued to formalize an existing parent-child relationship, secure inheritance rights, or recognize a long-standing familial bond. While adult adoptions are generally simpler than child adoptions, they still require court approval and proper documentation.

Private and Agency Adoptions

Adoptions may take place through licensed adoption agencies or private arrangements. Agency adoptions typically involve rigorous screening, home studies, and oversight, while private adoptions may be arranged directly between the birth parents and adoptive family. In either case, legal representation ensures that all parties’ rights are protected and that the adoption complies with Maryland law.

Independent or Consent Adoption

In a consent adoption, the birth parents voluntarily agree to terminate their parental rights so the child can be adopted. This process still requires court approval, and the consent must be informed, voluntary, and legally executed. Ensuring that consent is valid and properly documented is essential to avoiding legal challenges later.

Relative and Kinship Adoption

Relatives, such as grandparents, aunts, or uncles, may seek to adopt children who are no longer in the care of their biological parents. These types of adoptions can help preserve family ties and provide a child with a stable home environment. Courts may favor kinship placements, but the legal process still requires proper filings, consent (if applicable), and court approval.

Legal Steps in the Maryland Adoption Process

Regardless of the type of adoption, several important legal steps must be completed, including:

1. Filing a Petition – The adoptive parent(s) must submit a formal petition to the circuit court, including background information and the proposed relationship.
2. Consent and Termination of Parental Rights – The court must confirm that all necessary consents have been given or that legal grounds exist to terminate parental rights.
3. Home Study or Investigation – Depending on the type of adoption, a home study or investigation may be required to evaluate the suitability of the adoptive placement.
4. Court Hearing – A judge will review the case, ensure all legal requirements are met, and issue a final decree of adoption, establishing the new legal relationship.

While the process can vary based on circumstances, each adoption requires close attention to detail and strict compliance with state law.

How a La Plata Adoption Lawyer Can Help

Although adoption is a family-focused process, it is also a significant legal proceeding that affects the rights and responsibilities of everyone involved. Having a knowledgeable attorney advise and represent you ensures that your adoption proceeds smoothly, without delays or unexpected legal hurdles.

At Fanning Law, we assist clients by:

• Preparing and filing all necessary legal documents
• Advising on consent issues and obtaining proper parental releases
• Representing you at court hearings and agency meetings
• Helping stepparents and relatives secure their parental rights
• Addressing legal concerns that arise during independent or contested adoptions

We also ensure that adoptive parents understand the legal significance of adoption, including changes in custody, inheritance, and name changes.

Helping Families Grow in La Plata and Southern Maryland

Adoption changes lives—for the child, the adoptive parents, and the entire extended family. At Fanning Law, we are honored to help families grow through legal adoption, and we are proud to support our clients with compassion, experience, and respect.

Our firm serves clients throughout La Plata and the surrounding communities in Charles County and Southern Maryland. We are deeply familiar with the local courts and committed to providing each client with personalized and attentive service.

Whether you are a stepparent ready to solidify your role, a family member stepping in to provide a safe home, or someone hoping to welcome a child into your life, Fanning Law in La Plata is here to help. Let us guide you through the legal process and ensure your adoption is completed with care and confidence.