Welcoming a child into your family through adoption is a joyful and transformative milestone. Along with the emotional rewards, adoption also carries significant legal implications that families should understand to ensure their new relationship is fully protected under Maryland law.

Adoption Creates a Permanent Parent-Child Relationship

Once finalized, adoption permanently transfers all parental rights and responsibilities from the biological parents to the adoptive parents. This means:

• Adoptive parents are recognized as the child’s legal parents for all purposes, including medical, educational, and financial decision-making.
• The adopted child has the same legal rights as a biological child, including inheritance and family protections under Maryland law.
• Except in very limited circumstances an adoption cannot be reversed or challenged by the biological parents once the court issues the final decree.

Types of Adoption in Maryland

Families may come to adoption in many different ways, and each path has its own legal process:

• Stepparent Adoption – where a stepparent adopts their spouse’s child.
• Kinship Adoption – where relatives step in to provide a permanent home for a child within the family.
• Foster Care Adoption – when foster parents provide a permanent placement for a child in their care.
• Private or Agency-Based Adoption – when a child is adopted through a private adoption agency.

Each type of adoption involves unique requirements, but the outcome is the same: a lifelong legal bond.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Adoption law can be complex, and even small errors in paperwork or procedure can cause unnecessary delays or complications. An experienced family law attorney helps ensure:

• All legal requirements are met for finalization.
• The biological parents’ rights are properly addressed.
• The process moves as smoothly as possible, protecting both the child and the adoptive parents.

Supporting Maryland Families Every Step of the Way

At Rodier Family Law, we know adoption is more than a legal process—it’s the creation of a family. Our attorneys are dedicated to guiding you through each stage with compassion and clarity, making sure your rights and your child’s future are fully protected.

If you are considering adoption or are already in the process, contact us today to learn how we can support your family’s next chapter.