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  Gregory A. Germain: Attorney at Law
Tel:  (570) 341-1910 
Fax: (570) 341-1903
639 Jefferson Ave.
Scranton, PA 18510

Scranton Adoption Lawyer

If you want to start a new family or expand your current family, the Germain Law Firm has the knowledge to guide you through this life changing process. Whether you have been through the adoption process before or it is your first time, it is important to have the advice of an experienced adoption lawyer. The Germain Law Firm has been trusted by many families throughout Scranton and Northeast Pennsylvania (NEPA).

Attorney Greg Germain takes time to get to know each family seeking an adoption in order to better understand their needs. He can explain the different options available to your family and provide guidance as to which option you should pursue. If you need help in any of the following areas, we would love to talk to you about your situation and how we can help.

•    Domestic Adoption
•    Interstate Adoption
•    International Adoption
•    Agency Adoption
•    Independent Adoption
​

How much does an adoption cost?

The Germain Law Firm understands that adoptions can be expensive, which is why we offer free legal consultations and work with you to make the adoption process as affordable as possible. The cost of an adoption will ultimately depend on the complexity of your case. The following factors may affect the cost of your adoption.

•    Whether it is contested or uncontested
•    Whether it is domestic, interstate, or international
•    Whether it is through an agency adoption or private adoption

Attorney Greg Germain has the knowledge to look at your specific situation and advise you on what course of action makes sense for you financially. For example, you may qualify for an adoption subsidy, interest-free loan, or adoption-related benefits from your employer. In addition, the federal government offers an adoption tax credit.

How long does the adoption process take?

Most agencies estimate that adoptions take 1 to 2 years depending on the circumstances. It is important to keep in mind that international adoptions usually take longer than domestic adoptions and looking for a child with specific characteristics may result in a longer search. For example, if you are looking to adopt a child of a specific gender and race, you may face a longer wait time.

What is the difference between agency adoption and independent adoption?

Agency adoptions are conducted through public or private organizations that are licensed by the state. The Pennsylvania Adoption Exchange (PAE) is one such public organization and is part of the Statewide Adoption and Permanency Network (SWAN). Agencies provide families with services including training, counseling, homestudies, placement, and follow-up supervision. The benefit of using agencies is that they exclusively handle adoptions. Therefore, they can provide training and counseling to families going through the process.

Independent adoptions are conducted without the use of an agency. Families must still meet state standards but do not have to go through the bureaucracy that comes with agencies. Independent adoptions allow more flexibility to the families involved and can often shorten the process.

Talk to an experienced adoption lawyer today!

If you or a loved one needs advice concerning an adoption, call the Germain Law Firm at 570-341-1910 or contact us online! We offer free legal consultations to families in Scranton and Northeast Pennsylvania (NEPA). We will work with you to make the process easy and affordable.


*This web site is designed for general information only. Neither the information presented at this site nor submission of forms at this site should be construed to be formal legal advice or the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.
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