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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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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For Oregonions interested in adoption, there are a variety of different options to consider. The process can be done through a private agency or the Oregon Department of Human Services. Adoption can also be done independently, without involving an adoption agency or the DHS. With an independent adoption, the birth parent(s) and adoptive parent(s) f…
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There are many factors that will go into a family’s decision to adopt a child. One important consideration will be a financial one: how much will it cost to adopt? There are several different methods of adoption available in Oregon, each of which involves different costs and expenses. Whether you choose an agency adoption, an independent adoption…
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I’ve had many questions recently about how the Covid-19 pandemic is affecting adoptions in Oregon. For the most part, and largely dependent on what county you reside in, adoptions are proceeding as usual. If you are thinking about starting an adoption and have paused because of the pandemic, I recommend you speak with an attorney about your speci…
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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