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...

Welcome to the Utah Adoption Law Center.  Today’s post covers the top 10 questions you may have about adoption in Utah. Can I have the child’s name changed as part of the adoption? Yes.   How old must a child be before his or her consent is required? 12 years old. How much does adoption cost? The classic lawyer's answer is “it depends.” In foster child adoptions, Utah DCFS will usually reimburse you up to $2,000 per child so we keep the legal costs below that amount (sometimes well below that...