South Dakota Adoption & Name Change Lawyer

Experienced Family Law Attorneys Brookings, SD

Adoption is a legal process which transfers the rights and responsibilities of one or both biological parents to an adoptive parent. There are many variations of adoption such as:

  • Domestic Adoption
  • International Adoptions
  • Independent or Private-placement Adoptions
  • Relative Adoptions
  • Foster care Adoptions

Many complex issues may arise during the adoption process. There are regulations that govern adoptions and related proceedings. Adoptions may involve the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) and the Hague Convention. Other issues that may arise include the termination of parental rights (TPR) proceedings, filing notice on the fathers’ adoption registry and contract agreements between birth parents and the child.

Both birth parents and adoptive parents should seek legal representation to ensure that their rights are protected during the adoption process. At the Helsper, McCarty and Rasmussen Law Firm, our experienced legal team will provide you with the support and legal expertise needed to ensure this process goes smoothly.

International Adoption

There are many children throughout the world waiting to become part of a family. While international adoptions are far more common an occurrence in today’s society, they can still prove tricky. You may have documentation from the country your adopted child was born in stating that the adoption is legal, but it still needs to be recognized by the United States and the State of South Dakota. An experienced international adoption attorney from the Helsper, McCarty and Rasmussen Law Firm can assist you in filing the proper paperwork.

Name Change

As family dynamics change, some children and even adults decide to seek a name change. The name change process in South Dakota is a civil procedure that requires the aide of an experienced attorney. At the Helsper, McCarty and Rasmussen Law Firm, we represent individuals of all ages seeking to change their name.

Contact a South Dakota lawyer at Helsper, McCarty and Rasmussen Law Firm.