Changes in 2016 child litigation procedures may have made it easier for courts to intervene in custody, adoption, and parental rights cases. Modified standards for evidence or expedited timelines could accelerate court decisions. Understanding the new procedures is essential for protecting your interests in child-related legal matters. We previously wrote …

The 2016 federal adoption tax credit was approximately $13,810 per child for qualified adoption expenses. This credit could be claimed against federal income taxes in the year the adoption was finalized. Eligible costs included legal fees, court fees, and agency charges. The IRS has issued Rev. Proc. 2015-53, which establishes …

Once adoption is final, you cannot change the child’s Social Security number unless there’s identity theft, fraud, or administrative error—being adopted does not justify a change. If concerned about identity or records, consult Social Security Administration directly. Your adoption attorney can clarify what documentation is needed if you pursue a …

Grandmothers seeking to adopt must demonstrate parental unfitness or that adoption serves the child’s best interest, like any adoptive parent. Biological parents’ rights must be terminated through court proceedings. A grandmother’s existing relationship with the child can support best interest arguments, but does not waive the standard legal process. It …

The 2015 federal adoption tax credit allowed up to $13,190 per child in non-refundable tax credits for qualified adoption expenses. Eligible costs included attorney fees, court fees, and agency charges. The credit could be claimed in the year the adoption was finalized. For our firm December can be a busy …