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Supportive and Knowledgeable Adoption Attorneys

Third-party adoption attorneys for individual and agency adoptions in Oklahoma.  

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Growing Your Family With Third-Party Adoption

Adoption is a meaningful way to build your family, but the process isn’t always predictable. Every adoption has its own circumstances, and the steps can look different for every family. If you’re pursuing adoption, you want an experienced, supportive attorney to stand by your side and help you navigate the legal process.  

Third-party adoptions take many forms. Some of the most common that we work with are agency adoptions, individual adoptions, and relative adoptions.  

  • Agency Adoption 
    Public and private agencies play a central role in many adoptions. Public agencies often work with children in state custody, while private agencies typically assist birth parents who voluntarily choose adoption. Each path has unique requirements, and legal support helps ensure everything is handled clearly and correctly. 
  • Individual Adoption 
    Also called independent adoption, this involves a direct arrangement between birth parents and adoptive parents, sometimes with help from intermediaries like doctors or clergy. Because rules vary by state and the process can be sensitive, having an attorney guide the legal details is especially important. 
  • Relative Adoption 
    Also known as kinship adoption, this occurs when a child is adopted by a close family member, often a grandparent, aunt, or uncle. These cases frequently arise after a loss or major life change. While the process can be more streamlined, legal support helps ensure the transition is smooth and fully compliant with state requirements. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Third-Party Adoption

What is third-party adoption?

Third-party adoption includes any adoption where the adoptive parent is not the child’s stepparent. In Oklahoma, this typically includes agency adoptions, individual (independent) adoptions, and relative or kinship adoptions. Each comes with its own requirements, timelines, and legal steps. 
How does Ball Morse Lowe help with third-party adoption?

Our family law team guides you through every step — from preparing paperwork to navigating home studies, communicating with agencies, and finalizing the adoption in court. We focus on clarity, compassion, and steady support so you always know what comes next.
What types of adoption do you handle in Oklahoma?

We support: 

We help families understand what each path requires and what to expect.
What’s the difference between agency and individual adoption?
  • Agency adoption: A public or private agency helps match children with adoptive parents and oversees much of the process. 
  • Individual adoption: The arrangement is made directly between birth parents and adoptive parents, sometimes with help from a doctor, clergy member, or facilitator. 

Because Oklahoma regulates these processes differently, having legal guidance ensures your adoption meets all requirements. 
Do I need an attorney for a third-party adoption?

While some steps can be handled on your own, adoption is a detailed legal process that affects everyone involved. An attorney ensures required documents are completed correctly, deadlines are met, and the adoption complies with Oklahoma law. This reduces delays and gives you peace of mind.  
How long does a third-party adoption take in Oklahoma?

Timelines vary depending on the type of adoption, agency involvement, home study requirements, and the child’s specific circumstances. We help you understand what affects timing and keep you informed throughout the process. 
What rights do birth parents have during the adoption process? Birth parents have specific rights under Oklahoma law, including consent and waiting-period requirements. These rules are in place to protect everyone involved. We help adoptive parents understand these rights and navigate them respectfully and lawfully.
What is a home study, and will I need one? A home study is an evaluation of your home environment, background, and readiness to adopt. Most agency and individual adoptions require one. Relative adoptions may follow a more streamlined process. We help you understand what’s required and how to prepare.
How does relative (kinship) adoption work? Relative adoptions occur when a family member — often a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or adult sibling — steps in to provide a stable home. These cases can be simpler than other adoption types, but they still require court approval. We help ensure the process is smooth and legally sound. 
What should I expect at the final adoption hearing? The final hearing is typically brief, and often one of the most meaningful moments in the process. A judge reviews the case, confirms that requirements have been met, and finalizes the adoption. We prepare you for what to expect and stand with you in court.
How do I get started with Ball Morse Lowe? Reach out for a consultation. We’ll learn more about your situation, discuss your adoption goals, explain your options under Oklahoma law, and outline the steps ahead so you can move forward with confidence. 
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Contact our team of experienced, caring adoption attorneys for a free consultation. Our team is ready to speak with you.
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Helpful Adoption Resources

Learn more about adoption in Oklahoma in our Content Library.

 

 

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