Adoption Attorney in Des Moines, Iowa

Compassionate Legal Guidance for Adoption in Des Moines, Iowa

Adoption is one of the most life-affirming decisions a person can make. Whether you hope to expand your family or give a child a stable, loving home, the adoption process brings emotional rewards and complex legal requirements. It’s a journey filled with hope but can feel overwhelming and isolating, especially when encountering unfamiliar laws, paperwork, and timelines. Having the support of an experienced adoption lawyer can make a significant difference—not only in the outcome of your case but also in your peace of mind.

At Feitelson Law Firm, our Des Moines adoption attorney guides you every step of the way. With over 20 years of experience handling family law matters in Iowa, we bring compassion, clarity, and legal knowledge to each adoption case. Whether you’re a single adult, an LGBTQ individual or couple, or a traditional family, we tailor our services to meet your needs.

You shouldn’t have to navigate this important legal process alone. Let us help you move forward confidently and securely, starting with an initial consultation.

Who Can Adopt a Child in Iowa?

Understanding your eligibility is key to starting the adoption process. Many prospective parents worry that they might not meet the proper criteria, especially if they’re adopting as a single adult or as part of a non-traditional family structure.

These concerns are valid—laws around adoption can be intimidating, and misinformation can make you question your options. The good news is that Iowa law supports a wide range of adoptive parents and focuses on the best interests of the child.

Our attorney will help you understand your rights and what to expect depending on your family situation.

You may be eligible to adopt in Iowa if you are:

• A single adult who is emotionally and financially prepared to care for a child.
• A married couple, including opposite-sex and same-sex partners.
• A stepparent
• An adult seeking to adopt another adult, often to formalize a long-standing parental relationship.

Every family dynamic is different, and we believe that loving, committed individuals should be able to grow their families without fear of discrimination or delay. We’ll ensure that your application and supporting documents meet all Iowa legal standards so you can focus on what matters most—welcoming your child home. Contact our Des Moines adoption lawyer today to learn more.

What Types of Adoption Does Feitelson Law Firm Handle?

One of the most challenging parts of starting the adoption process is knowing which type of adoption is right for you. Many people come to us feeling overwhelmed by the options: agency vs. private adoption, domestic vs. foster care, open vs. closed arrangements. Others begin the process with a specific situation—such as a stepparent raising a partner’s child—but don’t realize the legal steps required to formalize that relationship.

Each type of adoption presents its challenges and requirements. You may face emotional hurdles, extended waiting periods, or the need to navigate sensitive communication with biological parents. No matter your situation, our lawyer provides a steady hand to guide you through the process with empathy and clarity.

We handle a wide range of adoptions, including:

• Private domestic adoptions– Working with biological parents directly or through a licensed adoption agency.
• Stepparent adoptions– Helping stepparents gain full parental rights and legal recognition.
• Relative or kinship adoptions– Formalizing relationships where a relative already plays a parental role.
• Foster care adoptions– Supporting families in providing permanent homes to children in the Iowa foster care system.
• Single-parent adoptions– Guiding individuals through the process with personalized, judgment-free support.
• LGBTQ+ adoptions– Advocating for inclusive family recognition in Iowa courts.
• Adult adoptions– Legalizing parent-child relationships that have formed over time.

We are committed to providing honest advice and helping you understand the benefits and challenges of each path.

What Are the Legal Steps in the Iowa Adoption Process?

Adoption in Iowa involves multiple steps, each with specific documentation, court procedures, and timelines. Handling this process alone can result in missed deadlines, paperwork errors, or misunderstandings that could delay or even jeopardize the adoption.

Our attorney is here to explain every step clearly and handle the legal details on your behalf. From filing the initial petition to finalizing the court order, we’ll ensure your case moves forward efficiently and complies with Iowa law.

Here’s what you can expect from the legal adoption process in Iowa:

• Initial consultation and case review– We’ll help you determine what type of adoption applies to your situation and what documents will be needed.
• Filing the petition– We’ll prepare and submit the formal adoption request to the appropriate Iowa court.
• Home study process– Most adoptions require a home study, during which a licensed professional assesses your home environment, lifestyle, and parenting readiness.
• Consent requirements– Sometimes, we must obtain written consent from biological parents or terminate existing parental rights. We handle these communications with professionalism and care.
• Court hearing– A judge will review your case, ask questions, and determine whether the adoption is in the child’s best interest.
• Finalization– Once approved, the adoption is legally complete, and new birth records are issued reflecting the change in parentage.

Throughout the process, our adoption attorney in Des Moines will advocate for your interests, provide regular updates, and remain accessible to answer questions or address concerns.

Do LGBTQ+ or Single Individuals Face Additional Legal Challenges?

While Iowa is one of the more inclusive states in terms of adoption law, LGBTQ+ individuals and single people can still face unique challenges—especially in private adoptions or those involving interstate elements. Some agencies or out-of-state jurisdictions may impose bias or additional requirements that are not present under Iowa law. These complications can be deeply frustrating and emotionally taxing.

At Feitelson Law Firm, we have experience working with LGBTQ+ and single clients. We are strong advocates for equal treatment under the law and will stand by your side to ensure your parental rights are protected at every stage.

Common legal concerns we address for LGBTQ+ and single adoptive parents include:

• Agency refusal or discrimination in private adoption settings.
• Second-parent adoptions for same-sex couples where one parent is not biologically related to the child.
• Out-of-state adoptions where laws may not be as inclusive as Iowa’s.
• Documentation and legal recognition of parentage for unmarried or non-traditional families.

No one should feel they have to justify their right to become a parent. Our adoption lawyer in Des Moines works tirelessly to remove barriers and ensure your family is treated with the dignity and fairness it deserves.

How Can a Des Moines Adoption Lawyer Help?

Trying to navigate adoption alone, even with the best intentions, can lead to confusion, costly errors, and unnecessary emotional strain. A skilled adoption lawyer provides legal knowledge and peace of mind. Feitelson Law Firm offers practical, honest, and personalized guidance so you never feel lost.

We can assist you with:

• Clarifying your legal rights and obligations.
• Helping you choose the right type of adoption for your situation.
• Preparing and filing all necessary court documents.
• Coordinating with agencies, birth parents, and evaluators.
• Representing you at hearings and advocating for your interests.

Every adoption case is unique. Our attorney will take the time to understand your goals, explain your options, and develop a legal strategy that supports your family’s future.

We Also Focus on the Following Areas:

• Child Custody 
• Child Support
• Child Support Enforcement
• Fathers’ Rights
• Paternity
• Divorce
• Domestic Violence
• Modification of Child Support or Modification of Custody
• Prenuptial Agreements
• Spousal Support

Take the First Step Toward Growing Your Family: Contact Feitelson Law Firm Today

Adoption is a powerful and life-changing decision—one that deserves experienced legal support and personal care. Whether you’re a single adult, a same-sex couple, or a family adopting through foster care, Feitelson Law Firm is ready to help you build the future you envision.

Contact our Des Moines adoption lawyer today to schedule a consultation. We will answer your questions, review your options, and confidently and clearly walk you through the legal process. Your journey to parenthood starts here—let us help you take that first step with purpose and support.