The Adoption Attorney OKC Families Trust!

OKC Adoption Process

The family lawyers at Cannon and Associates are dedicated to being Your Fierce Advocates® for families seeking to start or grow their family through adoption. One of the greatest gifts to can give anyone is a loving home and a stable environment to grow. Our owner and founder and his wife adopted their daughter at birth and it is an area of practice, in which our team is passionate. 

Adoption in Oklahoma may be complicated; however, the reward of completing the process and making your child equal in the eyes of the law to a biological child is a powerful moment for your family and will change the course of the life of your adopted child. Our OKC adoption attorneys at Cannon and Associates are dedicated to making the process of adoption in Oklahoma as smooth and stress free as possible for you and your family. We are honored to have the opportunity to meet with you, answer your questions about adoption in Oklahoma, and be a part of your adoption journey, if we are the right fit for your family. 

CALL NOW at (405) 591-3935 to schedule a free case planning to session to have your questions answered about the Oklahoma adoption process. 

a mother smiling holding up her daughter

Types of Adoption in Oklahoma

There are a wide variety of types of adoption in Oklahoma to address the varied situations that bring a family to the point of adopting a child. However, regardless of the type of adoption that applies to your family’s situation, Cannon & Associates is dedicated to helping your family navigate the process. Our OKC adoption attorneys have experiencing helping families in Oklahoma seek adoption through the variety of avenues of adoption in Oklahoma. The types of adoption available in Oklahoma and a brief explanation of each is included below:

Agency Adoption in Oklahoma: adoption is a complicated process and many hopeful parents work with adoption agencies to help with identifying potential birth parents that want to find a permanent home for their biological child. Public and private adoption agencies are governed by the state and must maintain a license to place children with adoptive parents. Government adoption agencies are generally limited to adoptions of children in state custody, as a result of abandonment, abuse, or a child that has been orphaned. Many private adoption agencies are run by public interest organizations and charities; however, some are less than reputable. In agency adoptions, children of expecting parents are identified for adoption by the agency and parents hoping to adopt are considered by the expecting parents. 

Individual Adoption in Oklahoma: individual adoptions are a direct placement by the birth parents with the adoptive parents in Oklahoma. Individual adoptions in Oklahoma sometimes involve clergy or medical professions. The rules and regulations concerning individual adoptions are complex and governed by the laws of the state where the child lives, as well as Oklahoma adoption laws. It is important to work with an experienced OKC adoption attorney to ensure your adoption rights and subsequent parental rights are protected. Working with an experienced OKC adoption attorney streamlines the process of individual adoption and ensures the paperwork is done the right way and timeline by all the involved parties. 

International Adoptions in Oklahoma: adopting a child from another country requires an in-depth understanding of the adoption laws of Oklahoma and the adoption laws in the country where the child lives prior to adoption. Our OKC adoption attorneys can walk you through the process and ensure you understand all the requirements in order to maximize your chances of successfully completing your international adoption in Oklahoma. 

Kinship Adoption in Oklahoma: kinship adoptions or relative adoptions involve the parents of the child and a family member or an individual with an existing relationship with the biological parents. Relative adoptions in Oklahoma typically involve grandparents or siblings of the child’s parents, i.e. aunts or uncles. Kinship adoptions are often the result of the loss or incapacitation of the birth parents. The process for obtaining a relative adoption or kinship adoption in Oklahoma is less complicated than an agency adoption, if it is uncontested. Our OKC adoption attorneys would be honored to discuss your options with you and the path to kinship adoption in Oklahoma. 

Same-Sex Adoption in Oklahoma: same-sex adoptions are only more complicated than traditional adoptions in Oklahoma, if international law comes into play as many countries still outlaw same-sex adoption. However, since the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in 2017, same-sex adoptions are legal across the United States, including Oklahoma. Our OKC adoption attorney can answer all your questions about same-sex adoption in Oklahoma and assist you in the process of completing your family.   

Stepparent Adoption in Oklahoma: as the title implies, stepparent adoption is when a custodial parent’s spouse adopts the spouse’s child from the biological parent or guardian. Uncontested stepparent adoptions are a wonderful thing and include a process that is less complex than agency adoptions and other conventional adoptions in Oklahoma. However, contested stepparent adoptions or stepparent adoptions when the other parent cannot be served are complex and require experienced OKC adoption counsel to ensure you complete the adoption process correctly. 

A happy couple signing adoption papers

Ask an OKC Adoption Lawyer: What Are The Requirements to Adopt a Child in Oklahoma?

The requirements to adopt a child in Oklahoma are rather straight forward. However, presenting sufficient information to convince the adoption judge that your adoption should be ordered and made legal can be a complex process. In order to qualify to seek adoption in Oklahoma, the following steps are required: 

  1. You must be 21 years old or older to adopt a child in Oklahoma
  2. You must be in good physical health to adopt in Oklahoma
  3. You must have sufficient space and appropriate sleeping arrangements for the child or children in order to adopt in Oklahoma
  4. You must be in a good financial state, meaning you must be able to financially provide for your existing obligations and the child to adopt in Oklahoma
  5.  You must be emotionally and mentally able to parent the child, including loving and supporting them in order to adopt in Oklahoma
  6. Your spouse or domestic partner will be held to the same requirements if you want to adopt in Oklahoma
  7. Your living environment must pass a state home assessment or multiple home assessments and be deemed suitable for the child / children in order to adopt in Oklahoma

The list of requirements to qualify for adoption in Oklahoma is not overwhelming; however, the process of presenting sufficient information to support each of these requirements and the logistics of preparing yourself, your family, and your home for adoption will be stressful. When you work with an experienced OKC adoption law firm, you will have peace of mind knowing you are working with an experienced adoption team that will guide you and prepare you for every step of your adoption process. 

Should I seek an adoption or guardianship?

The myriad of circumstances that lead to a family seeking adoption in Oklahoma are limitless. Additionally, the family dynamics that lead a family to considering adoption in Oklahoma include a wide-array of circumstances that do not always indicate adoption is the best option for a family in Oklahoma. Our OKC adoption attorneys can explain your options and the difference between Oklahoma adoptions and Oklahoma guardianships and assist you in determining, which option is best for your family. 

Adoption is a permanent process that is designed to terminate the parental rights of the parents giving up a child for adoption, but also terminates benefits from the state, which may be beneficial in your circumstance. Oklahoma guardianship laws provide a wide range of protections and may be a more suitable option for you and your family’s situation. We encourage you to ask all the questions you can during an adoption planning meeting with Your Fierce Advocates® at Cannon and Associates. 

OKC Adoption Attorney Process

We pride ourselves on making the process of adoption in Oklahoma as simple as possible for parents. The hoops the government requires you to jump through can seem daunting and make some potential parents give up on the prospect of adopting. However, you do not need to fear the process. You simply need an experienced OKC adoption attorney to walk you through the process, one step at a time. The following are the major milestones in the Oklahoma adoption process:

a couple discussing with an attorney
  1. Adoption screening, in order to determine from the beginning if you have a high likelihood of successful adoption in Oklahoma
  2. Initiate the adoption court pleadings to begin your adoption process in court
  3. Work to terminate the biological parent’s rights, in order to protect your rights once you adopt your child
  4. Complete state out-of-court process to ensure your home is fit for adoption in Oklahoma
  5. Adoption background check and medical evaluations
  6. Reference checks for your fitness to adopt a child
  7. Finalize legal and financial arrangements as part of your Oklahoma adoption
  8. Appear before the adoption judge, present all your documentation of completing the necessary steps, and receive the court order for adoption

Call An Oklahoma City Adoption Lawyer for Answers to Your Adoption Questions!

Our highly experienced Oklahoma City adoption lawyers are here to help you navigate your adoption process, regardless of its complexity. With our team by your side, you know that someone with knowledge and understanding of the adoption process and adoption laws is on your side, as Your Fierce Advocates®, fighting for the success of your adoption in Oklahoma.

If you are located in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, Yukon, Mustang, The Village, Moore, or Midwest City, contact us today by calling 405-591-3935 and set up a free consultation.

Cannon & Associates

Fierce Advocates®

For Families and Freedom

Our Client Reviews

More 5-star Reviews Than 99% Of Lawyers In Oklahoma

"John has shown nothing but compassion and professional guidance in my case. He truly cares about his clients and is exceptionally understanding when it comes to any case he is representing. He communicates genuinely as well as in a timely matter. If I were able to give his firm any more than 5 stars, I most definitely would. He is incredible."

- HOLLY ROSE

"John Cannon is an awesome attorney. He is very professional and honest. He really cares about his clients. John always gets back to you quickly to answer any questions you have regarding your case. I highly recommend CANNON & ASSOCIATES for any legal needs you may have."

- SHARON PINKARD

"John Cannon has helped me through the hardest time in my life. He helped me through my divorce and custody case. He truly cares about his clients and it made me so happy he always put my daughter first and wanted what was in her best interest as a child. He is very sharp and resourceful and he has been very attentive and responsive to my needs, John is very polite and professional and he always has a great attitude. John always took the time to go over everything and explain everything in depth. I've enjoyed working with John and his team and would recommend him to other clients."

- LEXI COYLE

"I have known John for about 6 years now in his capacity as a Judge Advocate and a civilian attorney. John has a rare blend of both sharp analytical and interpersonal skills. I have seen John achieve positive outcomes for clients in complex scenarios and If you need an attorney who can do the same for you - this is your guy."

- ALAN MERRIMAN

"John did a very good job. Although the outcome was not 100% what we expected(strange judgement) it was overall positive. I would, have and will continue to recommended him. Although I certainly hope to not need his services again in the capacity I hired him for I would not hesitate to call if I do. Thanks John"

- MICHAEL RICKARD

"I signed up with John June 25th, July 5th I received an email that my case is in line to be DISMISSED, within a 2 week time period John made what was one of the most stressful times in my life better! Every case is different but he handled my case with care and he was extremely open in his communication throughout the whole process. I hope to never have to have a criminal attorney again but if I do I will definitely go back to John. I highly recommend him to anyone else who is needing an attorney!"

- ASHLEY

"John is a highly respected attorney. Professional and compassionate. He has a wealth of knowledge, being a military officer and having served as an Assistant District Attorney, a Public Defender, and an Assistant Attorney General. He helped a friend's son who was headed down the wrong path, but through John's legal defense the young man is now a successful business owner."

- ATTORNEY COLLEAGUE

"John is a very professional attorney, who is not only concerned about the welfare of his client but very attentive and considerate of the family, or other bodies that are in the face of the adversity. While working on my family members case, John took time out to take a class that would educate him on how to approach the many different types of cases tried in the court room. John proved his sincerity to the calling of his job, being an attorney. I would definitely recommend him to anyone."

- LAQUITA

"Mr. Cannon went above and beyond for my wife. She was facing some pretty hard fines and prison time with the US Marshalls. Mr. Cannon fought a hard fight and got her a GREAT offer. Words cannot express how much I appreciate him and what he did for my wife. I would give 10 stars and I will be promoting him. He's that awesome. He keeps you informed, he will text or call you back, and he goes above what he is asked to do and I can reassure you"HE WILL FIGHT FOR YOU OR YOUR FAMILY MEMBER". I will continue retaining him for other things my wife is battling. High five and a great big hug to Mr. Cannon. Thank you!!! John took the reigns and provided us instant peace of mind. He was timely, respectful, transparent, very professional, honest and courteous. The service he provided was above and beyond our expectations. Can’t believe professionals like him are around. Highly highly without reservations recommend him and his team."

- TARA

"John Cannon is an excellent attorney. He takes sincere interest in your needs. He maintains communication and provides all the information you might want to fully understand the legal process. He also suggests alternative resolutions to your legal needs so that you can make informed choices. I definitely recommend John."

- DUDLEY

"My experience with CANNON & ASSOCIATES was absolutely amazing. I hired John Cannon two days before my rebuttal statement was due back to the Staff Judge Advocate. Within that time frame he was able to talk to my Battery and Battalion Commanders, review my evidence, and help me write a rebuttal statement that help prove my case to them, the Brigade Commander and the Post Commanding General. Cannon worked thru the night to help me get the best results for me and my family. Due to his hard work and attention to detail I am still able to continue to serve my country and progress in my military career with no adverse actions on my record. I can not thank him enough on a job well done. Cannon showed me that he was invested in my case and I highly recommend you hire him when you need someone to represent you in a legal matter."

- ZAVIEN

"John Cannon assisted me through a very difficult time in my military career. He worked tirelessly with me on my case and kept me informed during the entire process. I can't say enough good things about Mr. Cannon. He's incredibly knowledgeable with regards to military justice. The outcome of my case was successful and I attribute that to Mr. Cannon's professionalism and expertise in dealing with military law. I would highly recommend Mr. Cannon to anyone with military justice or criminal defense needs."

- A FORMER CLIENT

"Hands down the best lawyer. Mr.Cannon accepted my case and got on it the same day. I would give him 10 stars if I could. I really appreciate the dedication on how he handles things with a short time frame."

- CHRIS

"Mr. Cannon has represented me on 2 criminal cases and one civil case over the past 4 years. He has always served me honestly, speedily and with good moral direction. John has integrity and humility. He has never belittled me or treated me in an unfair manor. I appreciate all that he has done for me and I most certainly recommend him to family, strangers and friends. I will definitely use Mr. Cannon in the future for any and all of my family's legal matters."

- CANDICE

"Mr. Cannon went above and beyond for my wife. She was facing some pretty hard fines and prison time with the US Marshalls. Mr. Cannon fought a hard fight and got her a GREAT offer. Words cannot express how much I appreciate him and what he did for my wife. I would give 10 stars and I will be promoting him. He's that awesome. He keeps you informed, he will text or call you back, and he goes above what he is asked to do and I can reassure you"HE WILL FIGHT FOR YOU OR YOUR FAMILY MEMBER". I will continue retaining him for other things my wife is battling. High five and a great big hug to Mr. Cannon. Thank you!!!"

- TARA

"I had a great experience with John. He is very personable and helped me a lot. I’m really grateful I found him. He made me feel confident that he was the right lawyer for my case and that he wasn’t trying to sell me but genuinely just wanted to help me. I would highly recommend John to anyone!"

- DOMINIQUE

"Working with Mr. Cannon has been a real life-saving experience for me and my family. He provides the knowledge of the possibilities as soon as he can get them, then works tirelessly to ensure that any concerns or questions are addressed immediately. He has been a great asset to us not only in the face of legal troubles, but in providing a sense of security that is truly reassuring in the face of the uncertain.Mr. Cannon has been a great resource and has been very patient with me. From the start he provided a list of things to do that would help me help him with my case and since the beginning has continued to give advice or suggestions on any matter that has bothered me with my situation, large or small. He is gentle, yet realistic, and this combination really does become a rock in tumultuous times such as these.I would highly recommend Mr. Cannon to anyone who needs a vigilant and committed attorney, especially one that stands by your side until your issue is resolved. He goes above and beyond not only to work, but to care for his clients!"

- ANONYMOUS

"John Cannon assisted me through a very difficult time in my military career. He worked tirelessly with me on my case and kept me informed during the entire process. I can't say enough good things about Mr. Cannon. He's incredibly knowledgeable with regards to military justice. The outcome of my case was successful and I attribute that to Mr. Cannon's professionalism and expertise in dealing with military law. I highly recommend Mr. Cannon to anyone with military justice or criminal defense needs."

- S VANZANTE