If you’re considering adoption, it’s important to consult with an attorney first to learn what sorts of legal requirements are involved. At the Oklahoma City law office of Christopher A. Wood, we work closely with clients to ensure necessary paperwork, documentation, and any legally mandated materials are provided to the court in a timely and accurate manner. Given the complexities involved, our office guides clients through every step of the process in order to prevent delays and avoid legal obstacles. As your lawyer, Mr. Wood takes necessary steps to protect his clients against future custody claims when missing or absent parents suddenly show up demanding their rights.

We’ve represented numerous grandparents, aunts, and uncles in adoption cases. When a delinquent parent or bad home situation leads a concerned relative to consider adoption, it’s important to know the law is on your side. If you adopt a grandchild, niece or nephew, the law recognizes your rights in regard to the following:

    -The adopted child is eligible for insurance coverage through the adopting parent.

    -The adopted child gains inheritance rights through the adopting parent.

    -The adopting parent can make important legal decisions relating to schooling.

    -The adopting parent can also make critical decisions regarding the child's medical needs.

Sometimes, helping build a new family involves more than providing life’s necessities and a home for you and your step children. At the Oklahoma City law office of Christopher A. Wood, we shepherd step parents through the process of adoption, taking steps to terminate parental rights on grounds that make possible future claims to custody difficult to defend. Committed to protecting what’s best for children, we’re prepared to document neglect, abandonment, and lack of involvement on the part of a biological parent who tries to challenge a step parent’s adoption of their child. With over 20 years of experience as a family law attorney, Christopher A. Wood understands how to prepare and investigate a case and put the law on the side of his clients.

Being Prepared is Key. It’s important to document your involvement with your step children. Since the court always maintains what is in the best interest of children, you will need to establish the role you play in the life of your step children. In order to satisfy the court, providing the following can be helpful to your case:

    - Daily log of taking children to school, the doctor, sports activities, etc.

    - Photos of birthday and holiday celebrations where you were present

    - Vacation photos or videos with you and your step children

    - Records of medical bills paid for by you for your step children

As a family law and adoption practice, we understand how important it is to help families help themselves. Recognizing the confusing and complicated nature of some adoption proceedings, as your lawyer Christopher A. Wood’s door is always open. Accessible and flexible, as a private law office with minimal overhead we’re prepared to adapt to your needs while providing affordable rates.

If you have questions about adopting a step-child, grandchild, niece or nephew, contact Oklahoma step parent adoption lawyer Christopher A. Wood today. Representing clients in Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, Moore, Bethany, Warr Acres, and Del City, we provide free consultations and flexible hours for our clients.