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Before you decide to complete an adoption, be sure to have all of your questions answered by a legal professional. It is essential to know what to expect and what is required of you. These are some of the most commonly asked questions from prospective adoptive parents in Colorado.

Adoption can be one of the most exciting experiences of your life, but at the same time, one of the most overwhelming experiences. It is a legal process that you should undertake with care and sincerity. In most situations, it is best to have representation from Aurora adoption lawyers. Your attorneys will not only protect your interests, but they can answer your questions and ensure you understand how adoption works in Colorado. Here are some FAQs that our firm is asked.

What is an adoption?

An adoption is a legal process that terminates the rights of a child’s biological parents but also gives the rights to the adoptive parents. The adoptive parents then have all of the rights and responsibilities of raising the child. Once an adoption is complete, a birth parent cannot come back into the picture and attempt to reclaim their parental rights. 

Who Can Adopt a Child in Colorado?

Each state can set their own requirements to adopt a child. In Colorado, you must be at least 21 years of age or receive special permission from the court to adopt a child. Single individuals can adopt on their own; however, married individuals must file jointly for adoption.

Can Individuals with Criminal Histories Adopt?

It depends on the type of crimes they were convicted of. Anyone convicted of a felony in these areas will not be allowed to adopt:

• Child abuse or neglect
• Spousal abuse
• Any crime against a child, including, but not limited to, child pornography
• Any crime of domestic violence
• Violation of a protection order
• Any crime involving violence, rape, sexual assault, or homicide
• Any felony physical assault or battery conviction or felony drug-related conviction within the past five years

It should be noted that anyone convicted of a misdemeanor in these areas may be allowed to adopt a child upon court approval.

Can You Adopt a Stepchild?

Under specific circumstances, stepparents are legally permitted to adopt their stepchildren. These circumstances include:

• The biological parent that does not live with the child is deceased
• The biological parent has not had contact with the child for at least one year
• The biological parent has not paid child support
• The biological parent not living with the child gives their consent and relinquishes their legal parental rights

Do You Need Aurora Adoption Attorneys to Complete an Adoption?

The law does not require you to have legal representation to complete an adoption. However, it is typically in your best interest to do so. Aurora adoption lawyers can help you complete and file any necessary paperwork, provide guidance in the legal process, as well as provide many other valuable services.

Let Aurora Adoption Lawyers Help You

Aurora adoption attorneys at the CNL Law Firm, PLLC, are waiting to help you. We understand that there are many legal implications to consider when adopting a child, and our goal is to make this process as seamless as possible for you. Call (720) 370-2171 or complete our online form today to receive your no-obligation adoption case evaluation.