Many people wonder, "Should I hire an adoption attorney?" After doing adoption work for over 12 years now, here is my list of factors to consider: If someone decides to go pro se , which is Latin for "for oneself," then there is a higher risk of: Making civil procedure mistakes, i.e., notices, subpoenas, etc. Spending time 'barking up the wrong tree' or going down the wrong road, so to speak Missing caselaw research or recent rule changes Unnecessarily long, drawn-out case Being unsure of...

DISCLAIMER: Please note that these questions and answers do not and are not intended to constitute legal advice on a particular situation. Readers are encouraged to seek competent legal advice for their specific situation. I want to adopt a child but I am concerned that the child’s grandparent will oppose my adoption petition. What should I do? It depends. The Utah Adoption Act (Utah Code 81-13-207) sets forth the persons who must be given notice of an adoption petition; grandmothers and...

While talking with some folks about post-adoption services for foster children, I took some notes. Here are the most salient points: Reach out to DCFS for post-adoption help. DCFS has a vested interest in seeing adopted foster children succeed in their adoption. DCFS has a team of post-adoption professionals who may be able to provide services or referrals. The sooner you request help, the more likely that help will be successful. Of course, use your best judgment. DCFS cannot co-parent...