Best Adoption Lawyers in Germany

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English
Rechtsanwälte Wolff & Rambow is a distinguished law firm with offices in Ludwigslust and Parchim, Germany. With over two decades of legal practice, the firm specializes in addressing issues related to family and employment law. Both partners, Carsten Wolff and Mathias Rambow, hold certifications...
Regensburg, Germany

Founded in 1987
English
Established in 1987 by attorneys Birgit and Peter Hofmann, Rechtsanwälte Hofmann & Hofmann has been providing specialized legal services in Regensburg for over 30 years. The firm holds certifications as specialists in family law and insurance law, reflecting their extensive expertise and...
Anwaltskanzlei Laudam
Würzburg, Germany

Founded in 2020
English
Anwaltskanzlei Laudam, located in Würzburg, Germany, specializes in family law and medical law. The firm is led by attorney Mona Laudam, who has been practicing independently since October 1999. She holds the title of Fachanwältin (specialist lawyer) in both family law and medical law,...

English
Dr. Dominik Härtl, Fachanwalt für Familien- und Erbrecht, offers specialized legal services in family and inheritance law from his office in Dachau, Germany. With qualifications as a certified specialist in both fields and accreditation as a mediator since 2006, Dr. Härtl provides comprehensive...

Founded in 1975
English
BUSSE & MIESSEN Rechtsanwälte Partnerschaft mbB is a distinguished German law firm with over 50 years of experience in providing high-level legal counsel. The firm operates from offices in Bonn, Berlin, and Leipzig, offering specialized services across various legal domains. Their team comprises...

English
JUCKNISCHKE /// ADVO-KONTOR /// RECHTSANWALT - JENA is a dynamic and service-oriented law firm located in close proximity to the new Justice Center in Jena, encompassing the Amtsgericht Jena, the Thuringian Higher Regional Court, and the Labor Court Jena. With over 25 years of experience, the firm...
Gassmann & Seidel law firm
Stuttgart, Germany

Founded in 1993
50 people in their team
German
English
competent - ​​specialized - excellentWe have been supporting our clients nationwide with passion and expertise for 40 years. Our work is based on a clear philosophy. We provide specialized and personal advice. We place the highest demands on our work in order to achieve the goals of our...

English
Rechtsanwältin Nicola Bähr-Heinen, Fachanwältin für Familienrecht, bietet in ihrer Kanzlei in Brunsbüttel umfassende rechtliche Beratung und Vertretung in allen Bereichen des Familienrechts. Ihre Spezialisierung umfasst die Erstellung von Eheverträgen, Scheidungsfolgenvereinbarungen sowie die...
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About Adoption Law in Germany

Adoption in Germany is a legal process through which a child becomes a permanent part of a family different from the child's birth family. German adoption law is primarily governed by the Civil Code (Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch, BGB), which establishes the rights and responsibilities of adoptive parents and adopted children. Adoption aims to provide children without parental care the opportunity for a stable family environment, ensuring their welfare and development.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While the process of adopting a child can be deeply rewarding, it is often complex and heavily regulated. You may need a lawyer in several situations, including:

  • Understanding the legal criteria for eligibility as an adoptive parent.
  • Assisting with the preparation of legal documentation and necessary paperwork.
  • Guidance through intercountry adoption procedures and compliance with international treaties.
  • Representing you in court if necessary, particularly in contested adoptions or if there are complications with biological parents.
  • Advising on post-adoption legal matters, such as citizenship and inheritance issues.
  • Ensuring adherence to local and federal adoption laws throughout the process.

Local Laws Overview

German adoption laws stipulate several key requirements for prospective adoptive parents:

  • Adoptive parents must be at least 25 years old. If the adopting parents are a couple, one partner can be 21 years old if the other is at least 25.
  • Married couples must adopt jointly. Single individuals can adopt, but the process may be more rigorous.
  • Stepparent adoptions are allowed when the stepparent is married to the biological parent of the child.
  • Consent from the biological parents is necessary unless deemed legally capable of withholding such consent.
  • The child's well-being is the paramount consideration, with agencies ensuring that adoption is in the best interest of the child.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age requirement for adoptive parents in Germany?

At least 25 years old for single adopters; for couples, one partner must be at least 25 and the other at least 21.

Can unmarried couples adopt together in Germany?

No, only married couples or single individuals can adopt.

What is the role of Jugendamt in adoptions?

The Jugendamt (youth welfare office) plays a crucial role in assessing the suitability of adoptive parents and facilitating the placement process.

Can international adoption be processed from Germany?

Yes, international adoptions are possible. However, they are subject to regulations under international law, including adherence to the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption.

Is the consent of biological parents mandatory for adoption?

Yes, unless they are unable to legally give consent due to incapacity or absence.

How long does the adoption process take in Germany?

The process can vary but generally takes between 9 months to several years, depending on the complexity of the case.

What happens after adoption in terms of citizenship for foreign-born children?

Adopted children gain the same citizenship as their adoptive parents if specific criteria are met. Legal advice may be required to process this correctly.

Can same-sex couples adopt in Germany?

Yes, following the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2017, same-sex couples have the right to adopt jointly.

What support is available for adoptive families after the adoption is finalized?

Various support services are available, including counseling and parental training from child welfare organizations.

How does the adoption process differ for older children in Germany?

Adopting older children might involve different considerations, such as addressing past trauma or integration into the new family, which may require professional assistance.

Additional Resources

Consider reaching out to the following resources for further assistance in the adoption process:

  • Jugendamt (Youth Welfare Office)
  • Bundesverband behinderter Pflegekinder (National Association for Disabled Foster Children)
  • Family and Social Services of Germany
  • Pro Familia (Family Support Services)
  • Adoption agencies accredited by the German authorities

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with adoption in Germany, consider the following steps:

  • Consult with a lawyer specializing in family or adoption law to gain a better understanding of your unique situation.
  • Prepare all necessary documents with the guidance of your legal counsel to ensure compliance with the local and federal adoption laws.
  • Reach out to your local Jugendamt for further procedural assistance and support through the adoption process.
  • Utilize available resources and organizations that offer support to prospective adoptive parents for additional guidance.

By taking these steps, you can navigate the adoption process more smoothly and confidently, ensuring the best outcomes for you and the child you wish to adopt.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Germany 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.

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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.

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