Coverage of last month’s Summer Olympics highlighted the touching story of an American gymnast and her inter-family adoption through which her grandparents formally adopted her and became her legal parents. With the support of a loving family, she was able to pursue her dreams of competing on the world’s largest stage.

When a family issue becomes untenable, an adoption by a close family member may be a natural choice to protect the best interests of the child. Each year, more than 50,000 adoptions take place in the United States, but the process can be quite complicated at times. Retaining the professional services of an experienced family law attorney can help expedite the proceedings and ensure that the rights of all involved parties are fully protected.

Close Familial Relationships

The connection between family members is obvious. In addition to sharing numerous hereditary traits, many extended families share the same family values and goals and objectives. Life, however, is not easy and in many cases, a divorce, illness, or addiction can disrupt the usual course of affairs and cause a family breakdown. Often the smallest and most vulnerable family members are caught in the middle. Children may become pawns in a contentious relationship and, too often their interests are not served adequately.

This is where a close relative can step in and begin formal proceedings to begin an adoption. It is not uncommon for a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or sibling to fill the role of a parent while proceedings are underway to formalize the arrangements. A related adoption may also include a stepparent who is looking to provide security and stability for their new spouse’s child.

Experienced Legal Counsel Matters

In the event of a divorce, a parent who either cannot be located, or an unfit parent who refuses to relinquish his or her parental rights, it is crucial to hire a family law attorney who can bring a measure of reason to the situation. An attorney familiar with the adoption process will know the intricacies of the legal requirements and how best to approach a situation that could be delicate between family members.

The family law attorneys at Kezy & Associates, serve the needs of those needing adoption advice throughout Will County, DuPage County, and the surrounding areas. Contact one of our experienced Orland Park family lawyers to discuss your case and your available options. Call 708-518-8200 for your free consultation today.
Sources:

Meet Simone Biles, a Little Girl With Drug-Addict Mother, Abandoned by Father, Adopted by Grandparents, Becomes Best Athlete in the World

http://www.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/cb/prior_relation2014.pdf

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/03/intra-family-adoption-story_n_2403300.html