Areas of Family Law
Minnesota Adoption Lawyers
Shaping Families with Support and Expertise
Adoption—whether it involves a child, adolescent, or adult family member—can be one of life’s most rewarding journeys. However, the process can present significant legal and emotional challenges. Even in situations involving stepparents or other relatives, bringing someone into your family through adoption still requires thorough documentation, multiple legal steps, and trusted guidance. At Johnson/Turner, we’re here to make the path smoother, more straightforward, and fully supported from start to finish.
When you work with us, you receive more than just a seasoned Minnesota adoption attorney—you gain a team. This includes a senior paralegal, a client engagement specialist, and a life coach, all working together to support your journey. Our comprehensive approach ensures you’re equipped with the clarity and confidence needed to move forward with care and intention.
Understanding the Adoption Process in Minnesota
Each family’s situation is unique, and one of the first major decisions you’ll face is whether your adoption will be open or closed:
Closed: In these cases, biological parents have no direct contact with the adoptive family, and all records are sealed after the adoption is finalized. This is often chosen when safety or stability is a concern.
Open: This approach allows some level of continued connection between biological and adoptive families. Maintaining these relationships can be particularly helpful in stepparent cases, where a child benefits from ties to both families.
Family Adoptions: Stepparent and Grandparent Adoptions in Minnesota
Family-based adoption, including those involving stepparents or grandparents, is becoming more common but still involves complex legal procedures. Even when all parties agree, important steps must be followed:
Termination of Parental Rights: This is generally required before moving forward with legal custody transfer.
Filing Documents: Court-approved forms and supporting documents must be properly completed and submitted.
Final Hearing: A judge will review the case to ensure all legal standards have been met before finalizing the process.
If a biological parent refuses to relinquish their rights, you may need to pursue an involuntary termination. Our experienced legal team will guide you through every detail, ensuring nothing is missed and your family’s future is secure.
Why Choose Johnson/turner
Meeting Your Legal Needs
At Johnson/Turner, we follow a structured, step-by-step approach to ensure every adoption is handled with precision, compassion, and efficiency. Our dedicated team provides both legal guidance and emotional support to make the process as smooth as possible.
Our Adoption Process:
- Consent from Biological Parents: We assist in obtaining the required consent, ensuring all parties understand the process and that documentation is complete.
- Filing Court Documents: We’ll help you prepare and file the Petition for Adoption and other necessary forms. In family matters, we may also request that the court waive the home study, since the adoptee already has an established relationship with the adoptive parent(s).
- Criminal Background Check: Background checks are often required and can take time, so we help you get started early in the process.
- Hearing: We’ll be by your side during the court hearing, providing support and representation as you finalize the process.
- Judgment and Decree: After the hearing, we work with the judge to sign the Decree, making everything official.
- Termination of Parental Rights: If necessary, we’ll take legal steps to terminate the rights of any non-adoptive biological parent.
- Issuance of a New Birth Certificate: Once everything is complete, we assist in obtaining a new birth certificate that reflects your child’s new legal status.
We believe that family is built on love, commitment, and support—not just biology. At Johnson/Turner, we’re here to ensure your journey is as seamless as possible, helping you build the family you’ve envisioned with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.
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