Adoption Lawyer Edmonton
Practice Area
Speak with an Adoption Lawyer in Edmonton
Adoption is joyful—but the paperwork, consents, and court steps can feel complex. Bhardwaj+Co’s adoption lawyers in Edmonton, Alberta, guide you through private, step-parent, relative/kinship, agency-supported, and adult adoptions. We clarify consents and parental rights, coordinate required documents (including home study materials where applicable), prepare filings, and represent you at the adoption hearing so you can move confidently toward a Final Order of Adoption.
Protect your family’s rights and streamline the legal process—speak with an experienced adoption lawyer near me in Edmonton today.
Why Choose Bhardwaj+Co for Your Adoption
Resolving an adoption in Alberta takes more than filling out papers—it demands seasoned legal counsel, clear communication, and a firm grasp of your legal rights under Alberta family law. At Bhardwaj+Co, we guide families through private adoption (including agency placement through a licensed child-placing agency), relative/kinship and step-parent adoptions, and adult adoptions.
Our Edmonton family law team takes a tailored, practical approach so the adoption process remains predictable, even when legal complexity arises. We don’t just do the legal work; we build a durable plan that anticipates investigation steps and aligns with Alberta court expectations. From first consultation to hearing, you’ll know what we’re filing, why it matters, and how each step brings you closer to legally adopting a child.
Why families in Alberta trust us:
- Focused experience in Edmonton & Alberta courts. We prepare, file, and serve what the court requires—efficiently and correctly.
- Client-centred approach. Adoption is personal. We keep communications clear, respectful, and inclusive (including LGBTQ families).
- Process clarity from day one. You’ll know the steps, required legal procedures, expected adoption hearing logistics, and what can affect timelines.
- Transparent next steps. We explain what you can do now—documents to gather, home study coordination, and how to prepare biological parent consent materials where needed.
With Bhardwaj + Co, you get more than a family lawyer in Edmonton—you get a legal partner committed to protecting your parental rights and your child’s best interests.
Talk to an Adoption in Edmonton Today
- Beaumont
- Bon Accord
- Calmar
- Devon
- Edmonton
- Fort Saskatchewan
- Gibbons
- Lacombe
- Leduc
- Morinville
- Spruce Grove
- St. Albert
- Stony Plain
- Strathcona County
- Sturgeon County
- Thorsby
- Warburg
- Toefield
- Wetaskiwin
Don't see your location here? Call us at (780) 222-2386 or contact us to find out if we can service your area!
Learn More About Adoption Lawyers in Edmonton
Do I Need a Family Lawyer to Adopt a Child in Canada?
While Canadian law doesn’t require you to hire a lawyer, most families find having an adoption lawyer invaluable because the family law process involves specific legal aspects:
- Getting the right papers filed
- Obtaining biological parent consents (or seeking to dispense with them)
- Coordinating any home study report
- Preparing for a brief court appearance to finalize the order
Where a Lawyer Helps Most:
- Private/Agency Placement: Your adoption agency can guide placement, but it can’t give legal help. A lawyer drafts and files documents, manages service/notice, and prepares you for court.
- Step-Parent or Adult Adoptions: There can be complications with existing orders, child support obligations, or proving relationships.
- Contested Files: If consent is disputed or an involuntary termination is being considered, legal counsel helps reduce the risk of delays or rejection.
Common Types of Adoption Processes in Canada
Types of Adoption We Assist With
- Private Adoption (Direct Placement):
When birth and adoptive families connect directly or via a licensed adoption agency, we draft and verify the legal documents, address parental rights and consent, coordinate filing, and prepare you for the adoption hearing before a judge. - Relative Adoption (Kinship):
For grandparents, aunts/uncles, or other relatives adopting, we clarify custody, guardianship, and notice/consent requirements, and assemble evidence that supports the best interests of the adoptee. - Step-Parent Adoption:
We streamline step-parent adoption by outlining consent, potential termination of parental rights (where applicable under Alberta law — e.g., seeking to dispense with consent), and any investigation or background requirements. - Agency Adoption (Public/Agency Placement):
If you’re adopting through a licensed adoption agency or the foster care system, we’ll act as your representative, protecting your legal rights, ensuring filings are complete, and guiding you to a Final Order of Adoption. - Adult Adoptions:
We help with adult-age applications, ensuring eligibility, proper notice, and compliant affidavits for the court.
The Adoption Process in Alberta: From Consultation to Final Order of Adoption
Our Adoption Process: Step-by-Step Support
- Strategy Consultation & Document Map:
We assess your family situation, area logistics (Edmonton and surrounding communities), adoption type, and any post-adoption legal issues to anticipate. You’ll leave with a tailored checklist. - Home Study & Background Checks:
Many adoptions require a home study report (arranged via licensed professionals or agencies). We liaise as needed and ensure the report aligns with the court’s expectations. - Consents, Parental Rights & Responsibilities:
We confirm who must consent (e.g., biological parents) and whether grounds exist to dispense with consent or seek involuntary termination consistent with Alberta law. We explain implications for parental responsibilities, child support (including any existing child support orders), and the custodial environment. - Drafting & Filing Legal Documents:
We prepare the originating documents, affidavits, exhibits, preliminary order of adoption (if sought), and all supporting forms. Our team manages filing, service, and all legal work details so your package is accurate and timely. - Court Preparation & Hearing:
We coach you for the adoption hearing—what the judge may ask, courtroom etiquette, and required legal procedures. We appear with you, present the application, and move toward the Final Order of Adoption. - Final Order & After-Care:
Once granted, we coordinate certified copies and any necessary follow-up updates or post-adoption legal matters (such as name changes, record updates, or related legal assistance).
How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Cost?
Because adoption files vary widely, the only way to give an accurate cost is through a short consultation. Book a consultation with Bhardwaj+Co and we’ll review your situation, outline the legal work, timelines, and disbursements, and provide a clear, tailored quote.
How Long Is The Adoption Process?
In Alberta, the process for adoption may take between two months and six months.
Factors that may affect the timeline for the adoption application include:
- How fast you can complete the home study
- The status of the child’s birth parents
- A judge may not grant the adoption order the first time; they may request more information, require a hearing, or dismiss the application
Many steps and details must be considered when trying to adopt a child in Alberta.
Having an experienced lawyer help you navigate the adoption process for you and your family
will greatly assist you in achieving success.