Best Adoption Lawyers in Bogota

About Adoption Law in Bogota, Colombia

Adoption in Bogota, Colombia is a legal process through which a child who is not biologically related to the adopter becomes their child for all legal purposes. The adoption process is carefully regulated by Colombian law, with the main goal of protecting the rights and welfare of the child. Both Colombian and foreign citizens can adopt in Bogota under specific conditions and must comply with strict requirements. Adoption can be undertaken individually or as a couple, and each case undergoes a thorough scrutiny by the relevant authorities to ensure the best interests of the child.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Navigating the adoption process in Bogota can be complex and involves various legal steps and requirements. You may need a lawyer if:

• You wish to understand eligibility criteria or adoption laws.
• You are a foreign national seeking to adopt in Colombia.
• You are struggling with paperwork or fulfilling requirements.
• There are contested parental rights or concerns regarding the child’s legal status.
• You need representation in hearings or before family courts.
• You want to ensure all documentation is accurately submitted to prevent delays or rejections.
• You face legal challenges after the adoption is finalized, such as citizenship or inheritance issues.

Local Laws Overview

Colombian adoption law is governed primarily by the Colombian Civil Code, Law 1098 of 2006 (the Code for Children and Adolescents), and related decrees. Key aspects include:

• All adoptions must prioritize the child’s best interest and right to a family.
• The process is supervised by the Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF) or authorized adoption agencies.
• Prospective adoptive parents are subject to psychosocial, medical, and economic evaluations.
• Adoption is permitted for individuals or couples, with certain eligibility conditions such as minimum age difference between adopter and child (at least 15 years).
• Foreigners must comply with both Colombian requirements and their country’s regulations.
• The final adoption decision is made by a family judge.
• Adoption grants the child full legal rights as a biological child, including family name and inheritance rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can adopt a child in Bogota, Colombia?

Any adult over 25 years old—single or married—can adopt, provided there is at least a 15-year age difference between the adopter and the child. Couples must prove their stable relationship.

Are foreigners allowed to adopt in Bogota?

Yes, foreigners can adopt if they comply with Colombian law and requirements set by the ICBF or authorized private institutions, as well as their own country’s regulations.

Which authorities oversee the adoption process?

The Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF) and judicial family courts supervise and process all adoptions in Bogota.

What documents are required for adoption?

Common documents include identity cards, proof of income, psychological and medical reports, criminal background checks, and marriage or cohabitation certificates for couples.

How long does the adoption process take?

The process timeframe can vary but generally takes from several months to more than a year, depending on individual circumstances and compliance with requirements.

Is it possible for a single person to adopt?

Yes, adoption by single persons is permitted, as long as they meet all legal and psychological requirements.

Are adoptions in Colombia open or closed?

Most adoptions in Colombia are closed, meaning that identifying information about the biological parents is not disclosed to the adoptive family or the child unless both parties agree otherwise in certain cases.

Does the adopted child receive the same rights as a biological child?

Yes, legally adopted children in Colombia have the same rights as biological children, including inheritance and the right to use the family name.

Can an adoption be reversed?

Adoptions are generally irrevocable except in cases of proven fraud, defects in the process, or significant violations of the law.

What is the role of the family judge in adoption?

The family judge reviews the entire adoption dossier, ensures that all requirements have been met, and issues the final judicial decision that establishes the adoptive relationship.

Additional Resources

If you need support or more information about adoption in Bogota, you can reach out to the following organizations or authorities:

• Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar (ICBF): The main public body in charge of child protection and adoption procedures.
• Family Courts (Juzgados de Familia): Handle judicial aspects of adoption.
• Authorized Adoption Agencies: Several non-profit organizations are accredited to assist with the adoption process.
• Psychological and Legal Counseling Centers: Many public and private centers offer pre-adoption counseling and legal guidance.

Next Steps

If you are considering adoption or are already in the process and need legal help in Bogota, start by gathering all the necessary documentation and informing yourself about the requirements. Consulting with a specialized lawyer can help you navigate the complexities and avoid common pitfalls. An attorney can guide you through every stage, from preparing paperwork to representing you before authorities. To proceed, consider the following steps:

• Contact the ICBF or an authorized agency for an initial orientation session.
• Request a consultation with a lawyer specializing in family and adoption law.
• Prepare all required documents and gather supporting materials.
• Attend evaluations and interviews as scheduled by authorities.
• Follow up on your process regularly and stay informed about any legal changes affecting adoption in Colombia.

Taking these proactive steps with professional support can maximize your chances of a smooth and successful adoption experience in Bogota.