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Adoption Attorneys in Murrieta

Guiding San Diego Residents through Life’s Big Moments

Adoption a Child With Professional HelpChoosing to adopt a child is an Life is full of important decisions. The decision to adopt a child is among the most important life choices you could ever make. Our adoption attorneys, Michelle Penna and Laurie Coker, can guide you through the adoption process with kindness and compassion. At Penna Coker A Family Law Firm APLC, we focus exclusively on the practice of family law to help families achieve their goals and dreams.

If adoption is a part of your future plans, call our experienced family attorneys today at (951) 900-3342 or contact us online. We serve clients in Murrieta, Menifee, Temecula, San Diego, Riverside, Lake Elsinore, and the surrounding areas.

California Adoption Requirements

An adoption may be a step-parent adoption, which may involve a non-genetic father and/or mother, or an independent adoption, which may involve a non-relative or a relative but not necessarily a step-parent. In either type of adoption, an investigation through the county occurs.

Here are the some of the requirements for adoption in California (Family Code §§ 8600; 8601; 9000; 9326):

  • You are at least 18 years old
  • You are at least 10 years older than the child
  • You are the stepparent of your spouse's child, or you are the domestic partner of your domestic partner's child
  • You are a provider of board and care, treatment, and shelter for those with developmental disabilities for a spouse or an employee of a provider
  • You are either single or a married couple who is eligible to adopt
  • If adopting an older child, the child is at least 12 years old and has consented to the adoption

If the biological parent(s) consents, the process is much easier. If they do not consent, then a parental rights termination hearing is set. If the biological parents are indigent, they are appointed an attorney to represent them. Children 12 years and older may give their consent, which will be given weight by the court in the proceeding.

With respect to an independent adoption, if the parental rights of the biological parents are terminated, a second investigation occurs through the State of California Health and Human Services Agency. A follow-up report is generated after the parental rights are terminated, even in a step-parent adoption. Once those final reports are completed, a request to set an Adoption Hearing is filed to obtain the final adoption orders. If contested, adoptions can be a lengthy process.

Why You Need a Lawyer for Adoption

Should you ever have any questions and need to navigate through the adoption process, your attorney should be your first go-to. We have a thorough understanding on the laws and can apply that knowledge specifically to your case, whether you have a stepparent adoption or a private adoption. An adoption attorney can also help prepare you for any court hearings as well as by being your representative in court should any issues arise.

Our Murrieta adoption attorneys have dedicated their practice exclusively to the area of family law because we understand that there is no substitute for hands-on experience. We are professional and compassionate, yet aggressive when necessary. Contact Penna Coker A Family Law Firm APLC for help navigating the legal complexities of adoption.

For compassionate and dedicated legal representation in cases of adoption or other family matters, call (951) 900-3342 or contact us online.

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

When We Make the Case for Our Clients, They Make the Case For Us
  • “Our family is whole again and a big thanks to Laurie Coker who did a top notch job representing our rights and our sons.”

    McAdams Family

  • “Thank you so much”

    Matthew

  • “She is a strong woman and has a powerful presence and is not afraid of anything that is thrown her way. We definitely recommend the Penna firm.”

    Lizzy L.

  • “She is genuine and very unique in a profession that is missing many of those attributes.”

    Ron

  • “Michelle will help put you at ease while you go through whatever situation you are dealing with.”

    Kiley P.

  • “ I could not have gone through this ordeal without Michelle and her team! ”

    Lisa

  • “I always feel good going into court at anytime with Mrs. Penna and her team on my side!”

    Steve

  • “Hands down the best family law team in the area!”

    Bob C.

  • “Michelle and her team went above and beyond helping me with my custody case.”

    Jennifer F.

  • “Thank you Thank you! I would always recommend Penna Law Firm to anyone who wants the very Best!”

    Lisa

  • “This good woman has my back and my trust, my respect and then some. I will always believe in our justice system because of this special lawyer.”

    Cheryl L.

  • “Excellent communication.”

    Jennifer E.

  • “Michelle is a great combination of expert family law advice, representation and cost effectiveness.”

    Darrin

  • “I highly recommend her for your family law needs. It was the best thing I ever did!!”

    Patricia J.

  • “She truly is in the game for the best interest of the family.”

    Lyanne F.

OUR VALUES

How We Fight for Your Family
  • Over 34 Years of Experience Exclusively in Family Law

  • Free Consultations Directly with an Actual Partner at the Firm

  • Compassionate & Dedicated Legal Representation

  • Strong Reviews, Online Reputation & Recognitions

Call us for a free consultation today. We are eager to hear your case. Get Help Now