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Harrisburg Adoption Attorneys

Strong Representation for All Types of Adoption

At Shaffer & Engle, we know that there is any number of reasons why people adopt. Backed by over 65 years’ combined experience, our lawyers also know how to effectively guide individuals through the complex legal process. In the state of Pennsylvania, almost anyone over the age of 18 can adopt, including a grandparent, stepparent, or any adult - whether they are single or married. If you want to adopt an individual into your family, we can help you with all your legal needs.

Our firm can help with any type of adoption case, including:

  • Grandparent adoption
  • Involuntary adoption
  • Stepparent adoption
  • Voluntary adoption
  • Interstate adoption
  • Agency adoption
  • Closed adoption
  • Open adoption

Expanding your family can be an exciting time. It can also be confusing and overwhelming, with a significant amount of paperwork and decision-making. Let our Harrisburg adoption attorneys guide you, answer your questions, and provide you with the effective guidance you deserve.

Call us today at (717) 268-4287 to set up a consultation with our knowledgeable family law attorneys in Harrisburg.

Termination of Parental Rights in Adoption

Regardless of the type of adoption, one or both biological parents must terminate their parental rights. Termination of parental rights can be accomplished in multiple ways, assuming the parents have agreed to let you adopt their child. This may include attending a hearing where all parties communicate that they agree to the adoption. The other way involves signing a consent form which voluntarily relinquishes their rights. However, if the parents refuse to allow the adoption, there are steps that we can take to potentially have their rights involuntarily terminated.

Circumstances which may justify termination of parental rights include:

  • Proof of incarceration
  • Failure to file for custody
  • Failure to pay child support
  • Failure to attempt to visit the child
  • Untreated drug or alcohol addiction

Contact a Dauphin County Adoption Lawyer at (717) 268-4287

At Shaffer & Engle, we understand the many challenges that can arise during adoption. For example, one parent may contest having their parental rights terminated during the adoption process. You could also find that a mother changes their mind about giving up their baby after giving birth.

Whatever the situation may be, you can rely on us to thoroughly explain your obligations and your rights. We can help you navigate the adoption process and work through any potential problems. You can trust us to provide you with the strong representation you need.

Are you interested in discussing your options with a knowledgeable and caring adoption lawyer in Harrisburg? Call us today at (717) 268-4287 to make an appointment.

What Our
Clients Have to Say

  • Mr. Engle took my matter as if it were his own and followed through to the end.

    “I contacted Mr. Engle back in August. My custody case had originated in Delaware in 2013 and was the final hearing was held in May of 2015. After the other party objected DE having jurisdiction, he took matters into his own hands and got PA involved - where he lives. In a panic I called Mr. Engle after being referred to him by my DE attorney. Even though I wasn't a client and I did not have an appointment scheduled, Mr Engle took the time out to hear the background information, calm me down and come to, what I thought, was a good conclusion. Fast forward 4 months later and every email, phone call and frantic visit to his office was greeted with kindness and patience...and if he was unavailable, his staff showed the same warm professionalism. I could be sure that I would hear back from him within the same business day - sometimes even on his downtime after hours - or first thing in the morning. Mr. Engle took my matter as if it were his own and followed through to the end. I would not hesitate to call on Mr. Engle again if the occasion ever arose.”

    Rebekah

  • I will without hesitation, recommend you and your firm to my friends, family and colleagues in PA.

    “Thank you for taking my case and winning it! As you can see, I received my New York license today. Without your counsel and direction, this would have been an ongoing nightmare. I will without hesitation, recommend you and your firm to my friends, family and colleagues in PA.”

    Dan

  • She's a hard worker and she knows her stuff.

    “She's very dependable, honest, and very easy to talk to. She always returns my calls in a timely manner. She's a hard worker and she knows her stuff. I feel she always had my back and was working for me. And she even goes above and beyond if the situation calls for it. I had a very positive experience.”

    Former Client

  • Mr. Engle was able to explain the laws in PA and got the job done in days.

    “I am an attorney in the state of Washington. I have a family law client who was in desperate need of legal assistance in PA. The case against him was affecting his ability to work. Mr. Engle contacted me as soon as my email was received and helped my client. Mr. Engle was able to explain the laws in PA and got the job done in days. I have never encountered another attorney as eager to help and get the job done. I would highly recommend Mr. Engle to anyone.”

    Pamela

  • You believed in me and gave me the courage to tell the jury my side of the story

    “Dear Miss Elisabeth, I can't thank you enough for giving me my life back! Everyone told me I should just plead guilty but I knew I didn't do what they said I did. You believed in me and gave me the courage to tell the jury my side of the story and explain why I signed a confession when I never committed that crime. I was very scared during the trial but I felt good knowing you believed in me. I am a free man today because of you. God bless you.”

    S.G.