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Open adoption allows a child to know their mother’s identity. In a closed adoption, the biological parent does not maintain any ties with their child after adoption.

You may be able to reduce some of the wait time by being more flexible in your choice for an adoptive child.

Only a small percentage of foster children will ever be eligible for adoption, so you may not be able to legally adopt a foster child in your care. Those who wish to adopt a child should consider fostering a child whose parental rights have already been terminated. This will increase the chance that the child might be available for adoption.

Grandparents may petition for adoption of a grandchild in some situations. One option is when both parents consent to the adoption. If the parents do not consent, you may file a petition to adopt and serve the parents with notice.

Adoptive parents must register a foreign adoption order with the appropriate Wisconsin court within 365 days of the date the child enters the United States.

An adoptive parent has legal custody of the child and must provide all the necessities including food, housing, clothing, love, and support.

The adoption process can sometimes be confusing and overwhelming, but when you have guidance from a knowledgeable adoption attorney, the situation will be easier and less stressful. There are several things that adoption attorneys would like you to know as you go through the adoption process.

Whether you are planning to adopt a stepchild or are looking to adopt an infant or foster child, the process can be daunting. There are many requirements and regulations that can make the adoption process complex. An experienced adoption lawyer understands the many rules and will guide the adoption process from start to finish.

Generally, adopting an infant in Wisconsin may take from six months to two years. Adoption of an older child may take slightly less time. An experienced adoption attorney will help guide the process and make it as fast and easy as possible.