Partner With Your Legal Ally 717.268.4287
Trust a Firm with 65+ Years of Experience Let us put our experience to work for you.

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

  • Elisabeth took our case and provided great counsel, direction, and splendid representation throughout the legal process.

    “I needed a criminal defense lawyer for a family member. So, having been represented by Shaffer & Engle previously, I contacted them. Elisabeth took our case and provided great counsel, direction, and splendid representation throughout the legal process. The case was dismissed which was the best verdict that could be achieved. We are so thankful and blessed to have had such a wonderful attorney!”

    Ernie M.

  • 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

  • We are not seen as clients but instead as one of her family member. And for that, I admire and adore her work ethic and ability to help the community.

    “ I would definitely recommend her to anyone who needs her help. Her determination is outstanding.”

    Mai

  • 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

  • Jeff presents himself as a very knowledgeable and able attorney with sincere personal interest in the success of your case.

    “From the minute you call Jeff Engle's office, you are treated with first class respect and service. Jeff is very up front about his experience, results and belief in the success or possible issues with your case. From the time of retainment, Jeff's use of electronic forms of communication keep you up to date to the minute whenever there are developments and progress in your case. This type of communication is nearly unheard of in ANY profession. Many times, I knew that Jeff was taking his personal time to communicate with me. Jeff presents himself as a very knowledgeable and able attorney with sincere personal interest in the success of your case. During times of uncertainty, having someone of Jeff's demeanor at your side will simply make you feel that no matter what the outcome may be, he is right there with you. There was not one time during the course of my case that I felt Jeff was not thoughtful and prepared for. I cannot say enough for the level of professionalism this man presents while representing you as a client.”

    Kevin