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Maine Adoption

Adoption involves legal processes to create a parent-child relationship. Our attorney-drafted templates are quick and easy to complete.

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What is Adoption?

Adoption is a legal process that establishes a new parent-child relationship. These documents are essential for formalizing an adoption. Explore state-specific templates for your needs.

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Adoption Agreement between Adult Adoptee and Adoptive Parent with Parties to Jointly Petition Court

Establish a formal adoption relationship between an adult adoptee and their adoptive parent, ensuring legal rights and responsibilities are clearly defined.

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Common Maine Adoption documents

  • Adoption Agreement — outlines the terms of the adoption between parties.
  • Petition for Adoption — requests the court's approval to adopt a child.
  • Consent to Adoption — indicates parental agreement to the adoption process.
  • Adoption Decree — finalizes the adoption and grants parental rights.
  • Relinquishment of Parental Rights — formally gives up parental rights.
  • Adoption Home Study — evaluates the adoptive family's suitability.

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Similar documents: key differences

  • Adoption Agreement vs. Adoption Decree — an agreement sets terms; a decree finalizes the adoption.
  • Petition for Adoption vs. Application for Adoption — both seek legal approval but may differ in format.
  • Consent to Adoption vs. Relinquishment of Parental Rights — consent is agreement; relinquishment is a formal giving up of rights.
  • Step-Parent Adoption vs. Independent Adoption — step-parent adoption involves a spouse; independent adoption does not.

  • Adoption creates a legal relationship between the adoptive parent and child.

  • Consent from biological parents is usually required for adoption.

  • Adoption can be domestic or international, each with unique processes.

  • Home studies are often required to assess the adoptive family's readiness.

  • Adoption records are typically sealed for privacy.

How to get started

Begin your adoption process in just a few simple steps.

  • Find a template or package that suits your adoption situation.
  • Review the template's description, preview, and requirements.
  • Gain full access to templates with a subscription.
  • Fill out the form using our online editor.
  • Export or send your completed document via download, email, or mail.

Practical tip

Consider completing a home study early in the process to streamline adoption approval.

FAQs

The first step is to determine the type of adoption you wish to pursue.

Yes, typically, biological parents must consent to the adoption.

The timeline varies, but it can take several months to complete.

While it's possible, having legal guidance can help navigate complexities.

An adoption home study assesses the suitability of the adoptive family.

Glossary

  • Adoption - Legal process to establish a parent-child relationship.
  • Consent - Agreement by biological parents for adoption.
  • Decree - Court order finalizing an adoption.
  • Petition - Formal request to the court for adoption.
  • Relinquishment - Voluntary giving up of parental rights.
  • Home Study - Evaluation of the adoptive family's suitability.
  • Step-Parent Adoption - Adoption by a spouse of the child's biological parent.
  • Independent Adoption - Adoption arranged without an agency.
  • Interstate Adoption - Adoption involving parents from different states.
  • International Adoption - Adoption of a child from a different country.

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