Adoption is a meaningful way to provide a child with stability, love, and a sense of belonging. At Colborne Allyjan Law, we understand the profound impact that adoption can have on both the child and the adoptive family. Governed by Alberta’s Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, adoption in Alberta requires applicants to be residents of the province at the time of application, approval, and placement.
Whether you are considering public, private, or international adoption or looking to formalize a relationship with a stepchild or a family member, our experienced team at Colborne Allyjan Law is here to guide you through every step. We ensure that all legal aspects are handled with care, allowing you to focus on welcoming your new family member. We also offer a compassionate, non-judgmental environment for biological parents making the difficult decision to relinquish their rights. Adoption not only creates a permanent, nurturing home for a child but also establishes legal rights and obligations. Our dedicated lawyers are committed to providing the support and expertise needed to navigate the complexities of adoption, ensuring a smooth transition for all involved.
There are a few different ways to pursue adoption in Alberta. Private adoptions occur when a child is placed into care either by a licensed adoption agency or by the child’s birth parents. Department of Children’s Services adoptions involve children under the permanent care of Children’s Services. In inter-country adoptions, children are adopted from foreign countries. Lastly, step-parent adoptions involve a spouse or common-law partner of a parent seeking to adopt their partner’s child. The requirements for adoption include:
The person applying for adoption must be an adult, ensuring they have the legal capacity to undertake the responsibilities of parenthood and make binding decisions for the child’s welfare.
The adult applicant must be a current resident of Alberta or a resident at the time the child was placed in their care. This ensures that the applicant is subject to Alberta’s legal jurisdiction and relevant family laws during adoption.
The child being adopted must be a Canadian citizen or a lawfully admitted permanent resident. This requirement ensures that the child’s status is legally recognized within Canada, providing them with the appropriate rights and protections under Canadian law.
If the child is under a Permanent Guardianship Order (PGO) or Permanent Guardianship Agreement (PGA), the period during which an appeal or revocation can be made must have expired. This ensures no outstanding legal challenges to the child’s guardianship status, allowing the adoption to proceed smoothly.
The period for revoking consent to the adoption must have expired. This stipulation ensures that all parties have had sufficient time to reconsider their decision, thereby solidifying the legal certainty of the adoption process.
Our lawyers are here to answer all your questions and assist with the adoption process. We aim to resolve any complications swiftly and efficiently, allowing your family to move forward smoothly. Our experience can guide you through any adoption process, including:
Choosing the right family lawyer is a critical step in navigating legal challenges with confidence. Family Law is a dynamic and delicate practice that demands compassion, care, and communication. Our lawyers handle each case collaboratively, leveraging over 50 years of experience from the day of your free consultation to when your file becomes closed. Our initial consultation is designed to listen to your concerns, understand your goals, and offer clear, thoughtful guidance. We work hard to build a trusting relationship and offer the dependable support you need to move forward with peace of mind.
The adoption process in Alberta typically takes two to six months. However, the duration can vary depending on factors such as the completion of the home study and the circumstances of the birth parents. Additional Court requirements may also impact the timeline.
Financial aid and subsidies may be available for adoptive parents, particularly for adopting children with special needs or through public adoption agencies.