Best Adoption Lawyers in Lisbon

About Adoption Law in Lisbon, Portugal

Adoption Law in Lisbon, like the rest of Portugal, is governed by national legislation which is primarily found in the Civil Code and the Childhood and Youth Protection Act of Portugal. The primary goal is to prioritise the best interests of the child. It provides for full adoption, where all rights and responsibilities towards the child are transferred from the birth parents to the adoptive parents, and for restricted adoption, where some legal ties with the birth family remain.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Adoption is a complex legal process that can be overwhelming for potential adoptive parents. A lawyer who specializes in adoption laws can make this process manageable and ensure that it proceeds without hitches. The adoptive parent might require a lawyer to understand the legal implications, rights and responsibilities, navigate through the paperwork, understand local and international adoption laws, and represent them in any court proceedings. A lawyer can also help in handling any legal challenges in the adoption process or disputes that may arise after the adoption.

Local Laws Overview

In Lisbon, Portugal, the requirements for adoption include being over 25 years old, being at least 16 years older than the child (unless the child is a relative), sucessfully completing an adoption application and fulfilling a pre-adoption process that includes a preparation course and psychological assessment. Same-sex couples have the same adoption rights as heterosexual couples. Restricted adoption is possible under certain conditions. Parents are also obligated to maintain a certain level of contact with the child's birth family, unless it's deemed not to be in the child's best interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a single person adopt in Lisbon, Portugal?

Yes, single people can adopt in Lisbon, provided they meet all the other formal requirements.

Can a foreigner adopt in Lisbon, Portugal?

Yes, foreign adoption is allowed, though it is necessary to interact with both the Portuguese authorities and those in the prospective adopter’s home country, which requires extra bureaucracy.

What is the age limit for adopting?

Adoptive parents must be over 25 years old and at least 16 years older than the child except for relatives.

Can you adopt a relative's child?

Yes, relative's child can be adopted in Lisbon with a streamlined procedure.

Do you have to maintain contact with the birth family after adoption?

In case of restricted adoption, some level of contact with the birth family is expected, if it's in the best interest of the child. In full adoption, all ties are legally cut with the birth family.

Additional Resources

The Portuguese Social Security (Segurança Social) website provides detailed information on the adoption process. The Central Authority for Adoptions (Autoridade Central para a Adoção) is also a crucial governmental body dealing with adoption affairs. Non-profit organizations like the Portuguese Association for Adoption (APA) can offer additional support and guidance along the process.

Next Steps

Should legal assistance be required at any step of the adoption process, consult with a knowledgeable attorney. Begin with gathering the necessary documents and ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria for adoption in Portugal. You may also need to attend the compulsory preparation course for adoption. Reach out to the relevant authorities or adoption agencies and engaging a lawyer experienced with adoptions in Lisbon, Portugal will make ensure a smooth adoption process.