Debra Finch has had the privilege of representing hundreds of foster parents in the adoption of their foster children. She has witnessed the formation of beautiful and loving families through adoption from foster care. Some of the most rewarding days in her practice are days when she has a final adoption hearing for a child who has been in “the system” for years. The joy and relief for the child and the adoptive parents is palpable. It is a true celebration.
But the road to adoption through foster care is often fraught with challenges; it is not for the faint-hearted. Most children in the foster care system will be reunited with their biological families; however, there are situations where reunification is not a possibility. In those cases, foster families will typically have the first option for adoption.
While Debra Finch’s “official” representation of foster parents does not typically begin until the rights of the biological parents are terminated, she often takes the time to consult with foster parents as they navigate the juvenile court process, both before and after termination of parental rights (TPR). Foster parents are often gratified and relieved to speak to an experienced adoption attorney who has only their interests in mind and who can also explain the process and answer their questions.
There are occasions when terminations are not completed in juvenile court and Debra Finch will file for TPR in Superior Court as part of the adoption. Debra Finch is open and available to meet with foster parents to discuss their options for adoption, including:
- Foster Parents Rights
- Adoption Assistance
- Special Needs Adoption
- TPR
- Post-Adoption Contact
- Adoption Tax Credit
- Adoption Petition
- Adoption Finalization/New Birth Certificates
To learn more about foster care adoptions, contact Debra Finch to schedule a consultation.