Salt Lake County Adoption Attorney
Also Serving Utah County from Our Draper Office
Adoption provides families a method for creating and formalizing legal relationships between parent and child. The Utah Adoption Act governs the steps that must be taken in order to enjoy a successful adoption. An adoption proceeding is commenced when any interested party (usually the adoptive parents) file a petition to adopt.
Utah’s Adoption Process
After the petition is filed, the party who filed the petition (referred to as the “Petitioner”) must comply with the Utah Adoption Act’s requirements for notifying other potentially interested parties, thereby giving them an opportunity to have an influence over the proceedings. The notification and consent requirements depend on the type of adoption and the parties involved.
Notification
The adoption can proceed smoothly and quickly if all interested parties
are notified of and consent to the adoption. Importantly, any notice sent
as part of adoption proceedings must comply with the relevant
Utah Rules of Civil Procedure, most notably
Rule 4. If a party fails to timely respond to the formal notice then they may
forfeit their ability to intervene in the adoption. In instances in which
an interested party wants to have a say on the process, a motion to intervene
can be filed. This motion, if filed, usually delays the process while
the court evaluates the rights and concerns of the prospective intervenor.
Biological parents whose
parental rights have been terminated (or who have voluntarily relinquished their rights)
do not need to be notified or consent to the adoption.
The soonest an adoption can be finalized is usually 30 days after interested parties were served the notice of adoption proceedings. Final adoption hearings are brief and simple if the parties have prepared beforehand. The adoption hearing gives the presiding judge a chance to review adoption-related documents and hear testimony from witnesses. If everything is in order the adoptive parents sign an adoption agreement and the judge signs the decree of adoption.
Get experienced legal advice, call Utah adoption attorney Eric M. Swinyard for a no-obligation 30-minute consultation at (801) 515-4133.
Testimonials
Real Clients. Real Results.-
Amy Lee
He is very prompt with his responses to emails and phone calls which makes the process less stressful.
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Dalisa
This was all so stress free. I’m extremely great full for Preston and his staff for putting forth all the time to help me out!
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Bart
Highly recommend Eric and Preston without reservation. Their fees are more than reasonable and their service more than expected.
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Nicolle G.
I have had an absolutely positive experience through and through with them. They’re professional, empathetic, and ethical. I wish ...
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Thomas M.
He handled all matters promptly and thoroughly. He cares deeply about his clients and makes sure their needs are fully understood.
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Bethany
He and his office were conscientious about my financial needs and made sure I knew when charges were going to be made, so it ...
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Logan
I couldn’t be more pleased with the results and would definitely recommend Eric to anyone looking for a fantastic lawyer and a ...
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Jared H.
All issues were handled in a very timely and transparent manner.
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Sean K.
Working with Eric was a breeze. He addressed my concerns and laid out several options that were unique to my situation.
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Robin S.
If it wasn't for Eric and Preston, I wouldn't have gotten custody of my 2 children.
Meet Our Team
Professional. Confident. Approachable.-
Eric M. SwinyardFounding Attorney
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Ryan Ficklin
Attorney
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Preston Day
Attorney
Experience the Difference
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Experienced
The right attorney makes all the difference. Our attorneys are experienced, transparent and dedicated to your goals.
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Free 30-Min Consultation
We understand that you have questions, our Firm will provide you with a free 30-minute no-obligation consultation with an Attorney.
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Preparation
Family Law matters are complex; we ensure that all of our clients are thoroughly educated and prepared along the way.
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Personalized Approach
No two cases are the same. Our Approach is tailored specifically to your goals.
Take advantage of a free 30-minute, no-obligation consultation by calling 801-515-4133 or completing the form in the link below.