Call us today: (615) 848-1221

Murfreesboro Adoption Attorneys Help Families of All Kinds Fulfill Their Lifelong Dreams

Successfully guiding families through the adoption process for more than 50 years

The adoption process is one of the most exciting and fulfilling journeys that many families take. However, as joyous as this process is, it is often lengthy and involves several steps that can be emotionally and financially taxing. At Pate & Knott Attorneys at Law, our Murfreesboro adoption attorneys strive to make the process as seamless as possible and work hard to provide the resources and assistance you need to change a child's life forever. Whether you're interested in domestic or step-parent adoptions, we are here to help you complete your family.

Helping you understand the different types of adoptions available in Tennessee

Before beginning the adoption process, it is important to understand the different types of adoption available and the unique issues that you may face. Common types of adoption include:

  • Domestic adoption – This is one of the most common avenues families use to adopt children from a licensed agency within Tennessee.
  • Open adoptions – In some cases, families may choose to have an open adoption that allows the biological parent(s) to maintain contact with the child after the adoption.
  • Closed adoptions – With a closed adoption, all records are sealed and the biological parent(s) is prohibited from contacting the adoptive family. If either party wishes to re-establish contact, they must petition the court and go through the appropriate legal processes.
  • Stepparent adoptions – Stepparent adoptions are very common and the most common hurdle that families face is obtaining the requisite consent from the other biological parent.

Regardless of the type of adoption you're interested in, we're here to provide answers to all your questions and help you make the best decisions for your growing family.

Take proactive steps to ensure that your adoption is handled in an appropriate and lawful manner

In some cases, adoptive parents choose to work directly with the biological parent(s) without the assistance of an agency or lawyer. These types of adoptions are inherently dangerous and can lead to significant financial and emotional consequences should disagreements arise. Issues of consent may also complicate and invalidate adoption proceedings. For an adoption to be valid, consent must be given by the biological parent, legal parent or guardian, putative biological father and the adoptee if he or she is aged 14 or older. In cases where the parent has surrendered parental or guardianship rights or had his or her rights terminated by the court, consent is not required.

There are legal protections in place that allow parents to revoke consent or surrender within a specified time period. Putative fathers are also protected and given an opportunity to claim parentage following the child's birth or notice of adoption proceedings. The best way to ensure that your adoption is handled correctly is to work collaboratively with a licensed agency and experienced adoption attorney so that you don't encounter unexpected obstacles that cost you additional time and money.

Contact a knowledgeable Murfreesboro adoption attorney today for compassionate guidance through the adoption process

Whether you're just beginning to explore that adoption process or need help with an adoption already in progress, we are ready to help you complete your family. At Pate & Knott Attorneys at Law, our Murfreesboro adoption attorneys have decades of combined experience helping families make their adoption dreams a reality. Call us at 615-848-1221 or contact us online to discuss your case. We offer Saturday and evening appointments for your convenience.

Free Consultation

The Firm of Pate and Knott charges no fee for the initial consultation regarding personal injury cases, including automobile/truck/motorcycle accidents, slip and fall accidents or any other type of accident caused by a third party. Call us at (615) 848-1221 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation at our Murfreesboro office. Evening and Saturday appointments available.

Free Case Evaluation

Menu