Adoption is a life-changing journey, but the process has risks. Adoption scams are a serious threat to prospective families. Protecting yourself is essential, especially as scams become more sophisticated. Working with a skilled adoption lawyer helps you navigate these risks safely.

At Cofsky & Zeidman, we understand adoption’s complexities. Our team has over 25 years of experience guiding families through the adoption process. We help protect clients from scams and ensure a smooth adoption journey. Here’s what you need to know about adoption scams and how legal support can help.

Understanding Adoption Scams

Adoption scams take many forms, often involving false promises. Scammers may pretend to be birth parents, agencies, or adoption facilitators. Their goal is usually financial gain. They may ask for money upfront, often in exchange for false guarantees. Some scams go further, emotionally manipulating hopeful families. A skilled adoption lawyer recognizes these red flags and protects your interests.

Common Types of Adoption Scams

1. Fake Birth Parents: Scammers pretend to be birth mothers. They may reach out through social media or fake profiles. After establishing trust, they may ask for money or gifts, claiming it’s for pregnancy or living expenses. Sadly, the baby often doesn’t exist.
2. Bogus Agencies or Facilitators: Fraudulent agencies pose as legitimate adoption services. These organizations ask for large sums upfront, promising quick adoptions. Some even operate websites that look credible. Always verify an agency’s credentials.
3. Unlicensed International Adoption Facilitators: International adoption can be complex and costly. Scammers use this complexity to create fraudulent services. They may claim connections to international agencies or offer discounts on foreign adoptions.

How a Skilled Lawyer Protects You

An experienced adoption lawyer offers vital protection. A lawyer helps verify that all parties involved are legitimate. Here’s how legal support can safeguard your adoption journey:

1. Verifying Agencies and Facilitators

A skilled lawyer thoroughly checks agencies before clients invest. They confirm licensing and verify an agency’s track record. Legitimate agencies are transparent and can provide proof of their success rates and compliance with adoption laws. At Cofsky & Zeidman, we have connections with trusted agencies. We only work with established adoption services to ensure your process is safe.

2. Drafting Secure Financial Agreements

Financial discussions are often a red flag in scams. A skilled lawyer ensures all financial arrangements are in writing. Legitimate expenses might include medical fees, legal fees, or travel expenses. Clear agreements prevent hidden fees or exploitation. An experienced lawyer can distinguish legitimate costs from scams.

3. Establishing Parental Rights

Adoption scammers often promise that parental rights are clear. In reality, adoption involves legal steps to secure parental rights. An adoption lawyer ensures you have legally binding documentation. At Cofsky & Zeidman, we work to secure parental rights early, preventing future complications.

4. Confirming Birth Parent Involvement

Scammers may impersonate birth parents or create fake profiles. A lawyer verifies a birth parent’s identity, confirming they are genuinely involved in the adoption. Lawyers often work directly with adoption agencies to ensure the birth parent’s commitment is real.

Red Flags to Watch for in Adoption Scams

1. Request for Money Upfront: Legitimate agencies usually have clear fee structures. Scammers often ask for money upfront, outside of a formal agreement.
2. Limited Communication: If an agency or birth parent avoids direct calls or meetings, be wary. Communication should be open and consistent.
3. Unlicensed Facilitators: Always verify licenses. Scammers often operate without licenses, particularly in international adoptions.
4. Guaranteed Adoption Promises: Adoption is rarely a guaranteed process. Anyone offering “fast and guaranteed” adoptions may be deceptive.

How to Choose a Reliable Adoption Lawyer

When facing adoption, choose a lawyer with adoption-specific experience. General family law experience may not be enough. An experienced adoption attorney understands local, national, and international laws affecting adoption. At Cofsky & Zeidman, we have handled over 1,500 successful adoptions. Our experience in various types of adoptions helps us spot and prevent scams.

Key Qualities of a Skilled Adoption Lawyer

• Experience in Adoption Law: Confirm your lawyer has a solid background in adoption law. Look for expertise in both domestic and international adoption.
• Connections to Trusted Agencies: A skilled lawyer has established relationships with reputable agencies.
• Transparent Fee Structure: Avoid lawyers who can’t provide a clear breakdown of costs. A transparent fee structure is essential in avoiding financial exploitation.

Steps to Safeguard Your Adoption Process

1. Work with Verified Agencies: Avoid online ads or unsolicited contacts from agencies. Choose agencies recommended by trusted lawyers.
2. Research the Adoption Process: Educate yourself on adoption steps. The more you know, the easier it is to spot scams.
3. Get All Agreements in Writing: Verbal promises aren’t legally binding. Insist on written agreements for everything.
4. Secure Parental Rights: Work with a lawyer who prioritizes securing your parental rights. This prevents issues after the adoption is complete.
5. Stay Informed and Ask Questions: A legitimate agency or lawyer welcomes questions. Scammers tend to avoid questions and push you to make quick decisions.

How Cofsky & Zeidman Can Help You Avoid Scams

Cofsky & Zeidman brings over 25 years of experience to adoption law. Our attorneys understand adoption’s complexities and risks. We guide you through each step, ensuring your adoption is safe, transparent, and legally sound.

Our commitment includes verifying agencies, creating secure financial agreements, and securing parental rights. Attorney Donald C. Cofsky has helped over 1,500 families complete their adoptions. We handle every adoption with professionalism, protecting our clients from scams and unexpected issues.

Protecting Your Family’s Future with Trusted Legal Support

Adoption is a journey full of hope, but caution is essential. Adoption scams are real, and falling victim can be heartbreaking. Choosing the right legal team can prevent these issues. At Cofsky & Zeidman, we understand adoption and are dedicated to protecting your family’s future.

If you’re considering adoption, contact our office today. Our experienced team will support you through each step, ensuring a safe and successful adoption journey.