Columbia Relative Adoptions Attorney

As a relative, if you are trying to adopt a child, the process of adoption is slightly different than the standard adoption process. While relative adoptions could be considered an easier process, it is vital that you have an experienced Columbia adoption lawyer to assist you with the procedure.

At Masella Law Firm, P.A., our team has helped many families through the adoption process and we are prepared to put our vast experience to work for you. Our firm was founded in 1998, and it is our belief that every person should have a voice in matters of the law, including laws involving adoptions.

Adoption Attorney in Columbia, S.C.

As the law surrounding adoptions vary in each state, it is important to understand how South Carolina statutes are applied in relative adoptions. Each state defines "relative" differently, including relatives by blood, marriage, or adoption ranging from the first to the fifth degree. Usually, preference is given to a child's grandparents, followed by aunts, uncles, adult siblings, and cousins. Also, any person may adopt his or her spouse's child, and any person may adopt a child to whom he or she is related by blood or marriage.

Stepparents can adopt, and some relatives will be given preference over others. The process of adoption by a relative can be a lengthy and involved process, and the state has many requirements, including a full investigation of the prospective family and household. Contact a lawyer from our firm today and get the assistance you need to guide you through all of the steps of the process so that you are able to adopt a child of your close relative with the least trouble, and as smoothly as possible.