Understand all aspects of handling an adoption case. This user-friendly guide explains the fundamentals of the process, along with in-depth information on specific topics and practical guidance for each step in the legal process. For ease of reference, each chapter concludes with valuable summary points. Appendices, also provided on CD-ROM, include forms and sample language. The primary types of adoption are covered:

• Domestic private/independent adoptions
• Domestic agency adoptions
• International adoptions

Discussion covers the numerous legal issues impacting each type of adoption, including Hague, ICPC, ICWA, special needs adoptions and how to get the client from intake to finalization. Other issues covered include stepparent adoptions, post-adoption contract agreements, adult adoption, open records, disruption and dissolution, and wrongful adoptions.