Children and Social Services
Adoption Solicitors
Adoption is a legal process that gives you full parental responsibility for a child, offering them a safe, stable and permanent home. Embarking on the journey of adopting a child is a profound and life-changing decision.
Adoption Legal Services
Adoption is a legal process that gives you full parental responsibility for a child, offering them a safe, stable and permanent home. Embarking on the journey of adopting a child is a profound and life-changing decision.
At Walker Family Law, we have extensive experience in advising on all aspects of adoption, including:
- Stepparent adoption
- Family and kinship adoption
- Agency and local authority adoption
- Adoption Order applications
- Parental responsibility and legal status
- International adoption matters
- Post-adoption arrangements
Adoption solicitors are there to help guide you through the process of becoming an adoptive parent. This can include advice on your options, preparing the necessary paperwork, and supporting you through court hearings. Whether you’re adopting through an agency, as a stepparent or within your family, the legal processes for adoption ensure that everything is done with the child’s best interests at heart.
International Child Adoption
Adopting a child from overseas is a more complex legal process than domestic adoption. At Walker Family Law, we can guide you through the requirements of international adoption with clear advice at every stage.
International adoption involves both UK law and the laws of the country that the child was born in, as well as immigration considerations. You’ll usually need to go through a registered adoption agency, and the process will depend on whether the country is a signatory to the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption.
Child Adoption Solicitors
Whether you’re adopting a stepchild, a family member, or through an agency, our experienced adoption solicitors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Here’s how we can help:
- Expert guidance on your adoption options – helping you understand the different routes available.
- Support with adoption applications – preparing and submitting all necessary documents to ensure your case is presented clearly.
- Representation at court hearings – attending court with you and advocating on your behalf throughout the legal process.
- Advice on parental responsibility – explaining what it means to become a legal parent and ensuring you understand your rights and responsibilities.
- Assistance with post-adoption contact – advising on any agreed contact with birth parents or other family members.
- Tailored support for complex situations – such as international adoption or cases involving local authorities.
- A sensitive, family-focused approach – putting your child’s best interests at the centre of everything we do.
We understand how important this journey is, and we’re committed to making the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Emma Perkins qualified as a solicitor in 2005 and has been a member of the Law Society Children Panel since 2015. She is a Resolution Accredited Specialist in relation to both Private Children Act and Domestic Abuse cases. Emma is a passionate advocate for victims of domestic abuse.
Paul Sykes is a partner of the firm and a solicitor in the care team. Paul is a very experienced Children Law Specialist, having practiced as a solicitor since 1986. He is a member of the Law Society’s Children Panel and Advanced Family Law Panel. Paul represents parents and other family members as well as children themselves.
Sandy Powell is a partner of the firm and a solicitor in the care team. Sandy qualified as a solicitor in 1988 and has been practicing family law for over 30 years. She has been a member of the Law Society’s Children Panel since 1992.
Emilie Haine is an associate solicitor in the care team. She qualified as a solicitor in 2016 and has since specialised exclusively in child related matters. Emilie also deals with domestic abuse cases where court orders are needed to protect victims of domestic abuse.
Isabelle Stevens graduated in 2020, in the middle of the pandemic. She then went on to qualify as a solicitor with us here at Walker Family Law in 2023 where she is now a solicitor in the care team.
Briony Phillips is a Chartered Legal Executive in the care team. Briony has a varied caseload and can offer assistance in public or private law proceedings relating to children.
Nicole Phare is a consultant solicitor in the care team. Nicole qualified as a solicitor in 2005 and is a child law specialist. She is a committed member of Resolution.
Kim Stradling is a consultant solicitor in the care team. Kim has been a member of the Children Panel since 1999. She is particularly interested in complex care cases involving babies and children who have suffered accidents and injuries. Kim is an independent panel member and Vice Chair for The Fostering Foundation.
Compassionate guidance, tailored solutions
Walker Family Law is dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of adoption with care and expertise. Our experienced team of family law specialists and adoption solicitors are here to guide you every step of the way, providing the support and legal knowledge you need to create a loving and permanent home for a child.
We know that each adoption journey is unique. Our experienced team of lawyers offer personalised guidance, ensuring you understand the legal processes involved, from initial assessments to finalising the adoption. We will work closely with you to explore your options and craft a strategy that aligns with your family’s specific circumstances and desires.
Our Experience in Adoption Law
With a deep understanding of child adoption laws and regulations, our team is equipped to navigate the intricate legal landscape. We handle all types of adoptions, including domestic, international, stepparent, and relative adoptions. Trust us to handle the complexities, paperwork, and legal requirements, allowing you to focus on the joy of expanding your family.
Throughout the process of adopting a child, we will act as your dedicated advocates, ensuring your rights are protected and your interests are safeguarded. We provide ongoing support, address your concerns, and keep you informed at every stage.
As a firm that focuses exclusively on family law, we really do believe in the power of family. Our adoption services are designed to guide you towards building a strong, loving, and permanent bond with your child.
Contact our team of adoption solicitors today to schedule a consultation.
Our care team are specialists in all areas of child law. They are dedicated to helping you through difficult and challenging times, to reach the best outcome for you and your family.
Key people
FAQs
Can a legal adoption be reversed?
A legal adoption in the UK is typically permanent and cannot be reversed once the adoption order has been put in place. An adoption order transfers all legal parental rights and responsibilities to the adoptive parents. An adoption remains in place for the childs entire lifetime, and can only be reversed in very rare, circumstances, such as serious procedural errors or fraud.
What is the legal adoption process?
The adoption process involves multiple different stages. It starts with an initial application that is sent to an approved adoption agency . The adoption agency then carries out assessments, background checks, and prepares a report known as the Prospective Adopter’s Report. Once approved, the individuals looking to adopt are matched with a child, and after a placement period which can vary in length, they can apply to the court for an Adoption Order. The court then reviews the case and, if satisfied, grants the order to make the adoption legal and permanent.
What disqualifies you from adopting in England and Wales?
There are few different reasons that would disqualify you from adopting in England and Wales. To start with, you must be over 21 and have the right to live in England and Wales permanently. Criminal convictions will automatically exclude you from adopting a child. Additional reasons that could prevent you adopting include poor health, unstable housing, or financial difficulties. In these situations, cases are reviewed individually to determine whether the individuals in question have the means required to adopt a child.
What is the process for legal adoption for step parents?
The process for step-parents to adopt is slightly different. They first must apply to the Family Court for an adoption order. Before applying, they must give at least three months’ notice to their local council so that social services can assess the situation and prepare a report for the court. The court will then look at child welfare, as well as the situation of the prospective legal parents, including housing and their financial siutation. If approved, the adoption order gives the step-parent full parental rights and responsibilities.
How much are adoption legal fees?
The legal fees involved during the adoption process can vary. Factors include whether it is a private, agency-based, or a step-parent adoption. For the standard adoption process, fees typically range from £1,500 to £4,000 plus VAT. If an adoption case is more complex, or in cases where the adoption is contested, costs can rise quite considerably, particularly if there are multiple court appearances. You may be able to ask the local authority or the adoption agency to cover the costs depending on your situation.