Adoption is a significant and personal decision. It’s important to talk it through with people you trust, such as family members, mentors, or spiritual advisors. You may also want to connect with organizations like HeartReach Pregnancy Center or Catholic Social Services, which can help you explore whether adoption is the right path for you.

Ben is available to discuss the legal aspects and help you move forward with clarity.

Each adoption is unique, but the court requires a minimum of six months of legal jurisdiction over the child before finalizing an adoption.

During this time, the following typically happens:

• Parental consents are obtained

• A licensed social worker completes a home study

The child’s legal situation is reviewed, including any involvement from birth parents, tribal representatives, or guardians. Ben will help guide you through each stage and keep the process on track.

For non-relative adoptions, the state will:

• Conduct a routine background check

• Require a home study, which involves interviews and an in-home visit from a licensed social worker

In most cases, either the birth parents must consent to the adoption or a court must terminate their parental rights. Sometimes, other parties such as a Native tribe or legal guardian may also need to give consent. Ben will ensure you are fully prepared and compliant with all legal requirements.

Stepparent and grandparent adoptions are often simpler. If the biological parent consents, the process usually moves more quickly and with fewer complications.

These adoptions create legal security and deepen the emotional bond between the child and the caregiver. They can also relieve a biological parent of child support obligations, which sometimes encourages cooperation.

Generally, yes. Under Alaska law, birth parents must be notified and have the opportunity to consent or object.

There are exceptions. For example, if the court has already terminated the birth parents' rights or they have been absent or unfit, their consent may not be necessary

If the child is 10 years or older, the court also requires the child's consent. The judge will want to confirm that the child understands and agrees with the adoption.

Once the court finalizes the adoption, the child becomes a full legal member of the adoptive family. The adoptive parents have complete parental rights.

Birth parents no longer have legal standing. In some cases, adoptive parents may allow visits from birth parents, but this is always at their discretion. The adoption is final and cannot be undone by the birth parents.