Adoption/Reproductive Law

Starting a family is a dream for many people. While some people are able to use natural childbirth to begin the process, this option is not ideal or feasible for everyone. At the Law Offices of Christine J. Klein, we help people throughout New York start their families. Let us help your dream of a family become a reality. To schedule an appointment with an experienced adoption and reproductive law attorney, contact our firm online or call (914) 449-6749.

Adoption

At the Law Offices of Christine J. Klein, we represent clients in all types of adoption, including second-parent adoption, step-parent adoption, foster care adoption, private placement and international adoption. Our attorney works closely with clients throughout the process, helping ensure that you are recognized as the legal parent of your adopted child.

We know the adoption process can be complicated and frustrating, and we are committed to helping you understand all your options every step of the way. Adopting a child should be one of the most exciting times of your life, so we keep you up-to-date and involved with the developments of your case.

Orders of Parentage v. Second Parent Adoption

Before 2020, same-sex couples who wanted to protect and secure the parental relationship of the non-biological parent had only one option, a second-parent adoption. Since the introduction of the Parent Child Security Act in 2020, however, New Yorkers now have a second choice, to seek an Order of Parentage.

Second parent adoption and orders of parentage under the Parent Child Security Act (PCSA) in New York each serve to establish legal parental rights, but they differ in their processes and implications. Second parent adoption is a legal procedure that allows a non-biological parent-often in same-sex couples or blended families-to adopt their partner’s child, thereby gaining full legal rights and responsibilities, including custody and inheritance rights. This process requires a court hearing and can involve a more extensive legal evaluation. In contrast, orders of parentage under the PCSA are designed to simplify the legal recognition of parent-child relationships, particularly for non-biological parents, without the need for adoption. This pathway allows parents to establish their rights more efficiently, ensuring access to vital benefits and responsibilities while affirming their role in the child’s life. Both options are essential for ensuring legal protections, but the choice between them often depends on individual family dynamics and specific legal needs. Christine Klein can help you understand the difference in the process, protections and implications of each, so that you can choose the option that best suits your family.

Reproductive Law

Advances in modern medicine have made having a family a reality for many who never before thought it a possibility. Whether you are a couple with fertility problems, a same-sex couple or a single person, surrogacy, egg donations and sperm donations can often make having a family possible.

At the Law Offices of Christine J. Klein, we represent intended parents, donors and surrogates. We can help prepare surrogacy contracts, review insurance coverage issues and more. Schedule an appointment and we can talk about the legal practicalities necessary to help you start your special family.