Geneva, IL Adoption and Guardian ad Litem Law Firm

Attorneys for Adoption and Guardian ad Litem Matters in Kane County

At Serrano Hanson, our lead attorneys have extensive experience in family law, including adoption and Guardians Ad Litem. Our team knows the "ins" and "outs" of the family courts, which gives us the ability to provide clients with innovative solutions to their unique problems.

Adoption Overview

Adding a family member is an exciting and nerve-wracking time in one's life. An experienced and knowledgeable attorney from Serrano Hanson will handle the details and coordinate the legal proceedings so you can focus on what truly matters. From simple, uncontested adoptions to a tumultuous divorce, we can help. We have the experience and knowledge you need to handle the issues that matter most to you.

There are basic requirements that anyone looking to adopt a child in Illinois must meet. The first step to adoption proceedings is to ensure that you meet those requirements, which include the following:

• Age: In most cases, an individual looking to adopt must be 18 years old. Exceptions can be made in certain circumstances.
• Residency: In general, the adopting individual needs to live in Illinois for six months. However, exceptions can be made for individuals in the armed forces, family matters, or other extenuating circumstances.
• Background check: An individual must pass a criminal background check before being allowed to adopt in Illinois.

There are five types of adoption, all of which are handled by the attorneys at Serrano Hanson:

• Private Placement;
• Related Adoption;
• Unrelated Adoption;
• Adoption from an Agency; and
• Adoption of an Adult.

What Is a Guardian ad Litem?

A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is a specially trained person who is appointed by the court to conduct an investigation as to the best interests of the minor child throughout court proceedings. Depending on the court and judge, a GAL may be appointed in a family case. Both Lidia E. Serrano and Marissa R. Hanson are recognized by the courts as mediators and Guardians ad Litem, allowing them to serve as a valuable resource to clients, as they have a unique perspective from serving in this role. When our clients are going through adoption proceedings and dealing with other family law issues, it helps to have an attorney who has an in-depth knowledge of all sides of these issues.

The lawyers at Serrano Hanson provide representation to adoption clients, often serving as Guardians ad Litem during the proceedings throughout DeKalb, Kane, Kendall, and DuPage Counties, including South Elgin, St. Charles, Batavia, and Campton Hills. Contact our attorneys today at 630-844-8781.