Many adults dream of the day they can welcome a child into the family. While some can do so on their own, others turn to adoption through the help of a family law attorney. As the process can be confusing and complex, it’s imperative to have someone on your side who knows the system like the back of their hand.

Here, you can learn more about adoption from the legal team at Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. in Lake St. Louis, MO.

A Brief Guide to Adoption

Where to Start

The first thing to consider is whether you are looking to adopt a newborn, a toddler, or a child from a different country. By knowing exactly what you are looking for, you can simplify and streamline the overall process. A family law attorney can walk you through the adoption search and application period to attain the results you desire.

Waiting Periods

A number of factors come into play when determining the length of the waiting period. Things like state legal requirements, age, family structure, and whether you want a domestic or international adoption all play a major role in how long you might wait to adopt.

Adoption Cost

Private adoptions can cost anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000. If you have to cover the medical, living, counseling, and legal expenses for the birth mother, you could end up paying another $10,000. An international adoption costs anywhere from $7,000 to $25,000, and that doesn’t include travel expenses. All of these things are essential to consider before adopting a child.

While the adoption process can be rather extensive, a family law attorney can help make it a dream come true. Whether you need help with child custody, criminal defense, or family law, turn to Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. in Lake St. Louis, MO, for assistance. For more information, visit them online or call (636) 561-5599.