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Relative or Stepparent Adoptions Your Problems. Our Priority.

Adoption Attorneys In Salem, OR

Adoption should be a joyful experience, but determining the legal requirements to complete the process can be challenging.

Relative or Step-Parent Adoption

At Johnson & Taylor, our experienced Salem adoption attorneys are well-versed in Oregon adoption law. Whether you’re a relative or step-parent seeking to adopt a child, or a birth parent who wants to place your child for adoption, our legal team guides you and your family through the process every step of the way.

    Melissa and Bryan were absolutely wonderful when handling my divorce.
    “There was a lot of debt that needed to be sorted out, but they were both confident and positive that things would be straightforward, but were always prepared if things were to become more difficult. They made the process as painless and easy as possible, and were communicative and very patient with me and all of the worries I had. 10 out of 10, I can confidently say that I would happily work with them again if I ever need another divorce”
    - Margaret C.
    They are absolute professionals, and I would recommend them without hesitation.
    “Johnson and Taylor helped me through one of the most difficult times of my life. navigating a complex family law matter and I couldn’t be more grateful. From the first consultation to the final resolution, their team provided outstanding legal guidance and genuine support every step of the way. They listened to my concerns, explained the process in a way I could understand, and always made me feel like a priority. Their attention to detail, strategic thinking, and compassion made a huge difference in my case and my peace of mind. If you’re facing any family law issues and need a team that is both knowledgeable and truly cares, Johnson and Taylor is the firm to call.”
    - Joshua W.
    Thank you for helping give us our “family ever after.” We are forever grateful.
    “Melissa and Bryan helped my husband adopt our son, and we truly could not have asked for better attorney to walk us through this journey. What could have been a complicated and overwhelming process felt peaceful and seamless with them by our side.”
    - Cassandra D.
    I finally now have custody of our son all thanks to Brittany and her legal team.
    “I had the pleasure of working with Brittany as my attorney and she was absolutely amazing. Her and her team did an amazing job. They worked hard and super fast on all accounts. Ive been battling my ex wife for 11 years after our divorce over our 1 and only child together. I would recommend her to anyone in the same position i was in. Again thank you Johnson and Taylor, most of all a big thank you Brittany.”
    - Brittany S.
    They were organized and efficient and took the time to explain a process that I was fully unfamiliar with.
    “I recently used Johnson and Taylor, Person Injury and Family Law to assist me in divorce proceedings. Brittany Sumner and her paralegal, Stephanie Kincaid, provided excellent service and expertise. They were quick to respond to questions via email or phone and were able to schedule appointments in a timely manner. I highly recommend this practice and will use them again in the future should I have need for legal representation.”
    - Natalie R.
    Mai did everything she could, and more, to help our family.
    “I got custody in matter of months, in fact any delay was on my side but Mai was always reminding me and pushing me to do my part, she was all in in this process. I would love to recommend her and their firm, hope I don’t need it again but if I do I’ll definitely go back to them.”
    - Cristina S.

Legal Adoption In Oregon

Single and married adults age 21 and older can adopt a child in Oregon, provided they meet the requirements as outlined by the state including same-sex couples.

Each case is unique, and there are specific issues, laws and rules that may apply to your situation, including:

Home Study — The Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) conducts interviews and home inspections to determine if a home is suitable for a child. A home study is required unless the adoptive parent is a step-parent, grandparent or biological parent using a surrogate. Other exceptions may also apply.

Post-Placement Home Visit & Report—DHS performs a follow-up home visit after adoption to see how the family is adjusting and the child is progressing.

Payment of the Birth Mother’s Costs — Adoptive parents may pay for the reasonable costs associated with the adoption, including medical costs, travel and legal expenses. Adoptive parents are not permitted to provide the birth mother with additional funds beyond these costs.

Consent to the Adoption —A birth mother must always give consent for another person to adopt their child unless her parental rights have been terminated. A biological father must also give consent if he is married to the birth mother or is the legal father of the child, unless his parental rights have been terminated.

Legal Documents — If you are adopting a newborn, the birth mother can change her mind at any time before signing the Surrender, Release and Consent to Adoption and Certificate of Irrevocability. It is advisable to wait 24 to 48 hours after the birth to ensure that she is deemed mentally competent to sign. Once this legal document has been signed and the child is placed in the adoptive home, the revocation or changing of the conditions of consent without proving fraud or duress is highly unlikely.

Indian Child Welfare Act — Adoptions involving children of Native American descent may require you to contact and submit documentation to their federally-recognized Native American tribe before the adoption. Our adoption attorneys in Salem have experience handling these types of cases and take care of providing proper documentation to tribal authorities.

Adopting an Adult or Foreign Child — This process can be complex, so having a skilled adoption attorney in your corner is vital.

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