Get in touch

Fill in the form below and we'll get straight back to you

Adoption

Understanding and always within reach, we are the trusted advisors you can rely on in any circumstance.

arrow Find an Expert
dots

Understanding your rights and options

Adoption is a life-changing decision - for children, parents, and families. Whether you are facing adoption after care proceedings or exploring adoption as a step-parent, we are here to guide you with clarity, care, and expert legal advice.

Adoption after a care order

If the court has made a care order for your child, they may be placed with a family member or in foster care. In some cases, the court may decide that adoption is in the child’s best interests. This involves a placement order, which allows the Local Authority to place your child with potential adopters.

 

If adoption is being considered, it’s important to know:

  • Legal aid may be available to help you challenge the adoption - even if your child has already been removed from your care.
  • Adoption removes all legal rights from biological parents, so it’s vital to get legal advice early.
  • While contact with birth parents usually ends after adoption, courts are increasingly recognising that ongoing contact may benefit the child. We can help ensure this is properly considered.

Adoption is always a last resort. If there are other safe and suitable options, such as placing your child with extended family or friends, the court may consider alternatives like Special Guardianship.

 

If your circumstances have changed since the care order was made, and you are now able to care for your child, we can help you present that to the court.

 

 


 

Adoption by a step-parent

If you are a step-parent and want to adopt your partner’s child, this may be possible. However, there may be other legal options that better suit your family’s needs. We will help you understand what’s right for your situation and guide you through the process.

 

 


What is Special Guardianship?

Special Guardianship Order gives parental responsibility to someone who isn’t the child’s parent - such as a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or close family friend.

  • The child lives with the Special Guardian, who can make important decisions about their care.
  • The child’s parents usually retain parental responsibility, but the Special Guardian’s decisions can override theirs in some situations.

We can advise you on whether Special Guardianship is the right option for your family.

Rebecca Marshall - 8th Nov 2018 - Colour - LR - 056 copy

For legal advice on adoption

arrow Meet the Team
dots
quotes

It was a long hard slog but it all came good in the end and I can never thank you enough for what you have done for me.

Mrs T

Thank you very much for all your help especially in the difficult circumstances presented. I have never been happier.

Mr G

Zoe has guided me all the way through my financial settlement. Very professional and understanding of my situation. Highly recommend.

Donna

Can I take this opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to you for the compassionate manner in which you have dealt with my divorce. It has been a difficult and traumatic time but helped by your clear, helpful and timely instructions.

Mrs B

Legal Awards and Accreditations

bcorp_black
UK_Leading_firm_2026_FOR WEB
Firm Logo 200px-1
Investors In People - Awards 2025 - Finalist 200px
Dasls awards Winner Badge 200px
investor-in-people-gold-home