Memphis, Tennessee Adoption Lawyer
Stepparent Adoption • Relative Adoption • Third-Party Adoption
Misty D. Becker helps families take care of the legal aspects of adopting. Our goal is thorough and efficient handling of the paperwork and court proceedings, and a smooth transition.
Whether you are formally adopting a child who already lives with you, or you are bringing a new baby or child into the fold, Attorney Misty D. Becker works to anticipate and overcome any legal barriers. She practices family law in the Memphis area and throughout Shelby, Fayette and Tipton Counties. Call 901.881.8716 for an initial consultation.
Stepparent Adoption
The stepparent adoption procedure in Tennessee can be complex, even if the natural parent is not contesting it. Terminating one's parental rights is a big step. Ms. Becker handles the paperwork for termination of parental rights by covering all the bases to satisfy the Court's requirements, and by ensuring that the absent or unfit parent had appropriate notice and opportunity to object.
Ms. Becker also counsel's mothers on their rights before giving up children to adoptive parents so that they understand their rights in the process.
Intra-Family Adoption
Adoption by a grandparent or other relative also requires substantial documentation. The Court needs to be assured that the parent is either unfit by legal standards or understanding of the termination of his or her own parental rights, and that the grandparent, aunt, uncle or an older sibling or relations has been the child's caregiver and has the means to support the child.
Third-Party Adoption
Most private adoptions are arranged through an adoption agency. If you have arranged directly with the natural mother to adopt, Misty D. Becker can prepare or review the adoption agreement to protect your legal interests. She guides you through the court-ordered home study and the intensive paperwork. Please note we do not handle international adoptions, but refer those to other attorneys who practice primarily in the adoption areas law due to its special issues.
Adoption should be a happy occasion, and the attorneys and staff of Becker Law Offices are glad to help. Contact our Memphis office today to arrange a consultation.
