Stepparents often develop close relationships with their stepchildren and form strong emotional bonds. However, they do not have the same legal rights as a biological parent when it comes to matters like custody or making decisions on behalf of the child. Stepparent adoption can offer crucial legal protections for both the parent and child. It can…
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Adoption is a big decision. If you are considering growing your family through adoption, there are many things you should consider before you start the process. Being an adoptive parent will bring many changes to your life and the lives of those in your family. Not only should you be aware of the legal process regarding adoption, but you must also…
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In Oregon, an adult may legally adopt another adult as their child. These types of adoptions are often done for emotional reasons and can legalize a parent-child relationship that the parties had for many years. Adult adoption can also be important to solidify inheritance rights and legalize a strong connection or bond between the parties. However,…
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Parenting or adopting a foster child is rewarding, but it can also be challenging. It’s essential to be aware that many children who have been placed in the foster care system have experienced some form of trauma. In fact, most children in foster homes have been through more than one traumatic event — and some have been through repeated trauma…
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If you’re thinking about adoption, it’s important to be aware that there are many laws and regulations throughout the process. Not only is there a considerable amount of paperwork that must be completed, but there are a variety of complex legal matters you might encounter. While the procedures associated with adoption can often be overwhelming,…
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Paid family leave is critical for new parents, whether their family has grown due to the birth of a child, by adoption, or through foster care. Unfortunately, many employers do not pay their employees for the time they take off to bond with a new child, and they are not required to do so. Although there is currently no mandate in Oregon that family…
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For many same-sex couples, there is one legal parent despite both individuals taking an equal part in raising the child. Often, the reason for this is because only the biological parent has legal status or is on the birth certificate — unless the other parent adopts the child. For same-sex couples who wish to ensure that each parent has equal leg…
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Adoption can be the most fulfilling experience a person has in their lifetime. However, if you are unmarried and single, you may be wondering whether you are eligible to adopt a child. In Oregon, families are diverse, and you can adopt whether you are single, married, or in a domestic partnership. Applicants for adoption are not considered based on…
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Many children with special needs are in foster care as they wait for a family to provide them with a loving, stable, and permanent home. But families considering adoption might sometimes need additional financial support to help meet a child’s needs. Oregon’s Adoption Assistance Program is a state and federally funded program that offer…
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The home study is an important part of the process for many adoptions. Depending on the type of adoption or adoption professional you choose, you may be required to do a home study using an Oregon-licensed home study provider. Be patient, as the home study can be a time-consuming process. Understanding what the home study involves, what information…
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Salem attorney Sarah M. Litowich is an Oregonian through and through, with roots in rural eastern Oregon and the Willamette Valley. She is grateful for these deep Oregon roots because she learned the value of hard work and building and maintaining st… Read More