Exploring Your Adoption Options

When growing your family through adoption, one of the first major decisions is choosing between a domestic (American) adoption and an international adoption. At Greenberg & Greenberg, our adoption attorneys have guided more than 6,000 families through this journey, and we know each path offers unique benefits—as well as specific legal and logistical considerations.

Domestic (American) Adoption

Domestic adoption refers to adopting a child who is born in the United States. These adoptions can be completed through private placements, adoption agencies, or foster care systems. Some of the advantages of domestic adoption include:

• Greater predictability and transparency: Domestic adoption is governed by state laws in New York, New Jersey, and across the U.S., providing clearer expectations around timelines, processes, and parental rights.
• Opportunities for open adoption: Many domestic adoptions include varying levels of openness, allowing adoptive families and birth parents to stay connected in ways that best support the child.
• Access to medical and social history: Domestic adoptions typically offer more consistent access to background information, which is valuable for long‑term health and emotional understanding.

International Adoption

International adoption—adopting a child from another country—can be a beautiful, meaningful way to grow your family. However, it often involves significantly more complexity than domestic adoption.

The Complexities of Adopting Abroad

International adoption requires navigating:

• Foreign legal systems that may differ dramatically from U.S. procedures.
• Immigration requirements, including visas and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approvals.
• Hague Convention rules for countries that participate in these international adoption safeguards.
• Travel requirements, which may involve extended or multiple trips abroad.
• Potential delays caused by changing political climates, shifting regulations, or administrative slowdowns.

Not All Countries Allow International Adoption

One of the most important considerations is that not all countries permit international adoption. Some nations restrict foreign adoptions entirely, while others allow them only under specific circumstances. Regulations can change quickly—sometimes with little warning—making it essential to work with both a knowledgeable agency and adoption attorney to ensure compliance and avoid surprises.

Choosing the Right Path for Your Family

Both domestic and international adoption offer loving, life‑changing opportunities. The key is understanding the complexities, legal requirements, and emotional considerations of each path. As adoptive parents ourselves, we bring not only legal expertise but also lived experience to help guide, support, and advocate for you every step of the way.

Whether you’re considering a domestic adoption in New York or New Jersey or exploring the possibility of adopting from abroad, the Greenberg & Greenberg adoption lawyers are here to help with compassionate, knowledgeable guidance tailored to your family’s needs.

Have questions or want to discuss your adoption options? We’d be honored to help you navigate your next steps.