Elmhurst, Illinois Adoption Attorneys
Experienced Adoption Lawyers Helping Those in DuPage County, Lake County, and the Chicago Area
In many cases, adoption may be one of the most upbeat parts of a family law practice. Other times, it is just as heartbreaking as a divorce when a biological parent will not act in the best interest of their child and terminate their parental rights. Adoption is a legal manner of adding a child or adult to your family. A successful adoption can be both complex and time-consuming, requiring a skilled Illinois attorney to guide prospective parents carefully through the state’s adoption laws. Illinois recognizes a wide range of relationships created by adoption, including the following:
- “Traditional” adoption in which a husband and wife want to add a child (or adult) to their family. The parents adopt from the birth parents, either directly or via public or private adoption agencies. Some families adopt after providing foster care for a child. Adoptions may be open or closed. In a closed adoption the birth and adoptive parents do not know one another. In an open adoption, personal details may be exchanged and the biological parents may remain in contact with the child even following the adoption.
- Stepparent adoptions are by far the most common form of adoption in the state of Illinois. When the stepparent willingly and legally agrees to accept responsibility for the child of their spouse, a stepparent adoption can take place. A background check of the prospective stepparent is required, the biological parent must be notified of the adoption, and any objections on the part of the biological parent must be addressed.
Contested Adoption
While most adoptions are a joyous event to be celebrated, in some cases the adoption proceedings can be controversial. If the natural parent is not on board with having parental rights terminated, the adoption may be contested. Sometimes a natural parent’s family member may even contest the adoption of the child to another family member or to a non-relative family. If a contest occurs, you likely have to undergo a two-step trial. The first step is terminating the rights of a biological parent (or both biological parents). The second step is fitness of the adopting parties to adopt the child. Attorney Maxine Weiss Kunz has successfully undertaken these trials. The person contesting the adoption may, through his or her attorney, make one of several arguments is support of the position of opposition. Regardless of what the controversy is, or who it is between, the court will ultimately be charged with making the decision regarding the adoption.
The attorneys at Weiss-Kunz & Oliver, LLC will work hard to ensure your adoption process goes as smoothly as possible. We understand the importance of bringing a new member into your family and are dedicated to helping you build your family with as few complications, stress, and expense as possible. Our attorneys have extensive experience regarding Illinois adoption proceedings which can be used to the clients’ benefit. For knowledgeable adoption assistance, contact Weiss-Kunz & Oliver, LLC.
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"I needed an attorney who would fight for me and also keep me focused, and Maxine had my back."Maxine was very professional and worked efficiently to complete our case. Highly recommend!- Gloria B.
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"As a client of WKO, I highly recommend Amanda Oliver."She has extensive experience to address family law issues efficiently and effectively. She is direct, informative, knowledgeable, resourceful and well-respected in the legal community. I love how she anticipates and mitigates potential issues, strategizes next steps, and keeps me informed along the way. If you have to go thru the divorce process, you want Amanda in your corner. HIGHLY recommend!- Angela L.
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"Divorce isn’t always easy but Maxine and her team at WKO make it so."Maxine and her team have exceeded my expectations. Focused on the family and doing the right thing for everyone involved. Most importantly, my children. I’m deeply grateful for her efforts.- Stephen G.
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"I am so glad I chose Amanda & her team."I highly recommend Amanda Oliver & her team at Weiss-Kunz & Oliver. Everyone I dealt with was professional, empathetic & compassionate. They make their clients their priority. Their fee structure was fair & very transparent.- Amy S.
Uncontested Adoption
Many private adoptions are considered uncontested, meaning the biological parents do not object to the adoption. These may take place without the involvement of an adoption agency. Even when your adoption appears totally straightforward, it is recommended you have an attorney involved to properly review and file your adoption agreement in order to avoid future complications.
The lawyers at Weiss-Kunz & Oliver, LLC offer flat rates for uncontested adoptions provided they remain uncontested, contact us today to see how we can help you.
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Mediation & Collaborative Law ExperienceOur attorneys are committed to helping clients explore alternate dispute resolution options, as we believe it empowers individuals to maintain control over the outcome of their case. This collaborative approach not only reduces conflict but often leads to more satisfying and lasting resolutions, ensuring our clients are happier with both the process and the result.
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Boutique Feel, High-Level ExperienceWe provide a tailored, deeply personal approach to family law, combining years of high-level experience with a commitment to understanding your specific needs. Our goal is to guide you through every stage of divorce with empathy, ensuring your family’s future is protected and your peace of mind restored.
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Personalized Service, Exceptional ValueWe pride ourselves on offering the same high level of expertise and experience as other boutique family law firms in downtown Chicago, Park Ridge, and Elmhurst. Our commitment to providing clients with more reasonable fees and direct access to the founding members of our firm, ensuring personalized attention and a deep, hands-on approach to each case.
