Best Adoption Lawyers in Ireland

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McIntyre O'Brien Solicitors
Letterkenny, Ireland

Founded in 2010
8 people in their team
English
McIntyre Oโ€™Brien Solicitors โ€” Relentless Defence. Unmatched Expertise.With offices in Letterkenny and Donegal Town, McIntyre Oโ€™Brien Solicitors serves clients across County Donegal, delivering high-impact legal representation in criminal defence, personal injury, medical negligence,...
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Galway, Ireland

English
Fidelma Bane Solicitor is a well-established law firm based in Ireland, recognized for providing comprehensive legal services across a range of practice areas. With extensive experience in employment law, family law, and personal injury cases, the firm has earned a reputation for navigating complex...
Paul J Cunney & Co. Solicitors
Swinford, Ireland

English
Paul J Cunney & Co. Solicitors, located in Swinford, County Mayo, offers a comprehensive range of legal services to both private and commercial clients throughout Ireland. The firm is committed to delivering professional, efficient, cost-effective, and confidential services, ensuring that clients...
ishaq and co Solicitors
Limerick, Ireland

English
Ishaq & Co Solicitors, based in Limerick, Ireland, is a distinguished law firm specializing in immigration and citizenship law. Led by Principal Solicitor Ishaq Alam, the firm brings extensive experience from legal systems in Pakistan, England, Wales, and Ireland, offering clients a comprehensive...

Founded in 2022
English
Langsch & Cunnane Solicitors LLP, established by Pรกdraig Langsch and Kathriona Cunnane, is a progressive law firm in Ireland that embraces an innovative 'e-lawyering' model. This approach leverages remote working and virtual consultations to provide flexible and cost-effective legal services to...

Founded in 2004
50 people in their team
Irish
English
Katherina White Solicitors is a full legal service law firm based in the heart of Cork City.  We provide a full range of legal services for commercial and private individuals. The firm prides itself on having a practical, common-sense approach to problem-solving while achieving positive...

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Irish
English
Denise Kelleher & Associates SolicitorsAn established firm of solicitors with extensive skill and experience, Denise Kelleher & Associates are dedicated to providing you with the best legal advice and representation. Based in Ballygarvan, Denise and her team have served the people of Cork...
Carrigaline, Ireland

Founded in 2015
English
Adams Donnelly Solicitors LLP, based in Carrigaline and Kinsale, County Cork, offers comprehensive legal services in personal injury, family law, general litigation, property, and probate. The firm is led by partner Macaire Adams and has recently expanded its team with the addition of solicitor...
Bourke Carrigg & Loftus
Ballina, Ireland

English
Established in 1860, Bourke Carrigg & Loftus is Mayo's original law firm, offering trusted legal services to the community for over 160 years. The firm provides comprehensive legal support across various practice areas, including family law, commercial law, probate, criminal law, property law,...
Cork, Ireland

Founded in 1986
English
Established in 1986 by Frank Buttimer, Frank Buttimer & Company has built a distinguished reputation for delivering exceptional legal services both locally and nationally. Based at 19 Washington Street in Cork, the firm has expanded its reach through impressive court results and a loyal client...
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About Adoption Law in Ireland

Adoption in Ireland is governed by the Adoption Act 2010, which outlines the legal process of adopting a child. The primary goal of adoption is to provide a stable and loving home for children who are unable to be cared for by their biological parents. Adoption involves transferring the parental rights and responsibilities from the biological parents to the adoptive parents, creating a new legal relationship between the child and the adoptive family.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where you may require legal assistance in adoption, such as navigating the complex legal requirements, understanding your rights as an adoptive parent, addressing issues with birth parents, or contesting an adoption decision. A lawyer with experience in adoption law can provide guidance, support, and representation throughout the adoption process.

Local Laws Overview

In Ireland, adoption laws prioritize the best interests of the child and aim to provide a secure and permanent family environment. The Adoption Act 2010 sets out the legal procedures for domestic and intercountry adoptions, including eligibility requirements, consent procedures, and court approval. Prospective adoptive parents must meet certain criteria and undergo a thorough assessment before being approved to adopt a child.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who can adopt a child in Ireland?

A: In Ireland, individuals or couples who are over 21 years old, deemed capable of caring for a child, and have undergone a suitability assessment can adopt a child.

Q: How long does the adoption process take in Ireland?

A: The adoption process can vary in length depending on individual circumstances, but it typically takes around 12-18 months from the initial application to the final court approval.

Q: Do birth parents have any rights in the adoption process?

A: Birth parents must consent to the adoption unless their rights have been terminated by the court. In some cases, birth parents may contest the adoption, requiring legal intervention.

Q: Can same-sex couples adopt in Ireland?

A: Same-sex couples have the same adoption rights as heterosexual couples in Ireland since the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015, which allows them to jointly adopt a child.

Q: What type of information is disclosed in an adoption process?

A: Adoption records in Ireland may include limited information about the birth parents, medical history, and background of the child, while ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of all parties involved.

Q: Can a finalized adoption be reversed in Ireland?

A: Once an adoption is finalized in Ireland, it is legally binding, and the adoptive parents have the same rights and responsibilities as biological parents. Reversing an adoption is highly uncommon and can only be done in exceptional circumstances.

Q: How can I find a reputable adoption agency in Ireland?

A: The Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI) regulates all adoption services and agencies in Ireland, ensuring they comply with legal requirements and ethical standards. You can contact the AAI for a list of approved adoption agencies.

Q: What financial support is available for adoptive parents in Ireland?

A: Adoptive parents in Ireland may be eligible for financial assistance, such as Adoption Benefit or the Adoption Support Fund, to help cover the costs of adopting a child and provide support services.

Q: What rights do adopted children have in Ireland?

A: Adopted children in Ireland have the same rights as biological children, including inheritance rights, access to medical information, and a stable and loving family environment.

Q: Can I adopt a child from another country in Ireland?

A: Intercountry adoption in Ireland is governed by the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption, which sets out the legal procedures and safeguards for adopting a child from another country.

Additional Resources

For more information on adoption in Ireland, you can visit the Adoption Authority of Ireland's website at www.aai.gov.ie or contact a local adoption agency for guidance and support.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in adoption, it is essential to consult with a qualified adoption lawyer who can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and represent your interests in court if necessary. Be sure to research and choose a lawyer with experience in adoption law and a proven track record of success in handling adoption cases.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Ireland through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Adoption, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Ireland - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.