“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
— James 1:27 (NIV)
Few moments in life are as meaningful as welcoming a child into your family through adoption. Whether you're a stepparent who has raised a child as your own for years, a grandparent stepping in to provide stability, or a family opening your home to a child in need…the decision to adopt is one of the most selfless acts of love there is.
But the legal process can feel overwhelming. Alabama adoption law involves specific requirements, court filings, background checks, home studies, and, in many cases, the termination of parental rights. Without proper guidance, even well-meaning families can face delays, complications, or unexpected legal hurdles.
You're not here because you enjoy browsing the internet. You're here because you want to make a child a permanent part of your family…and you need to know how to do it the right way.
Perhaps you're a stepparent ready to legally adopt your spouse's child. Maybe you're a relative who has been caring for a child and wants to formalize that relationship. Or maybe you're navigating a more complex situation where biological parental rights are contested. Whatever your circumstances, you deserve clear answers and a straightforward path forward.
No matter what your questions are, no matter what you're feeling, my experience in family law and family court matters has shown me that every adoption story is unique—and every family deserves personalized guidance.
But an internet article…even one of ours…is simply not enough. You'll need to go deeper. That's why we offer adoption consultations to anyone considering this life-changing step. We're not interested in adding to your stress during what should be a joyful time. We're interested in helping you build your family with confidence.
During your adoption consultation, we'll discuss your specific situation and goals. We'll explain Alabama's adoption requirements and how they apply to your case. We'll outline the steps involved—from petition filing to finalization hearing. And we'll give you an honest assessment of the timeline, costs, and any potential challenges you may face.
Our experienced family law attorneys here at Baxley Maniscalco handle various types of adoptions: stepparent adoptions, relative adoptions (including grandparent adoptions), and other family adoption matters. If you're ready to make your family official in the eyes of the law, there's a good chance we can help.
So, if you're ready to take the first step—to understand the process and move forward with a team who cares about your family's future—feel free to get in touch. There's no commitment on your end, and no obligation to hire us.
We don't promise specific timelines. We don't guarantee outcomes. To do so would be unethical and irresponsible. But what we can do is walk beside you through every step of this process…and when the judge signs that final decree, celebrate with you as your family officially adds another member.
To your growing family,
Adam Maniscalco
Alabama Family Law Attorney
Baxley Maniscalco, LLP
Meet Our Adoption Attorneys
Syndey Merrin focuses her practice on family law matters in Calhoun and Cleburne counties.
Adam Maniscalco, experienced trial attorney and Deputy Attorney General.
“Adam, Alyssa, and their staff are all wonderful at what they do. I have had only excellent experiences with them, and I would recommend their services in a heartbeat. In addition to their professional excellence, they are good-hearted, down-to-earth people who really care about their clients and their community.”
- Jeremy M.
"Highly Recommend. Great Professionals, easy to work with and our outcome was exactly what we wanted!"
- Alicia T.