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Contested Adoption

Contested Adoption in Pennsylvania & New Jersey

Adoption is a joyful process, but sometimes, a biological parent, grandparent or other third party may object, and the process becomes more complicated than originally anticipated. These situations are legally and emotionally complex, and the stakes are high. As an adoptive parent, you need a skilled lawyer to guide you through contested adoption in Pennsylvania and New Jersey – one with both courtroom experience and niche knowledge in this specialty area of law.

What Is a Contested Adoption?

A contested adoption occurs when one or more parties do not consent to the adoption, so formal legal action is required. This often involves involuntary termination of parental rights (which is when the court severs parental rights over someone’s objection), an objecting biological parent (when a birth parent refuses to consent or challenges relinquishment), or an objecting biological family member with standing (when a biological grandparent seeks to intervene and requests that the child be placed in their care instead of with the intended adopting individual or family).

Why Hire an Experienced Adoption Attorney

Contested adoptions are legally complex and often require navigating termination hearings, gathering evidence, applying strict legal standards, and sometimes taking a case to a complex, multi-day trial. There is also a high burden of proof, as the petitioning party must show grounds for termination (e.g., neglect, failure to perform parental duties) and show that severing parental rights is in the child’s best interests. In PA and NJ, petitions must meet specific content requirements. Most importantly, the outcomes of these proceedings have permanent consequences, meaning termination of parental rights can be final.

How We Represent Clients

  • We prepare and file petitions and legal briefs
  • We conduct or support diligent searches for missing or absentee parents
  • We present evidence of the child’s best interests, stability, and adoptive family suitability
  • We negotiate or litigate contested hearings

Why Choose Martine, Katz Scanlon & Schimmel?

  • Our firm has handled contested adoption cases in both PA and NJ, so we have deep adoption law experience.
  • Many adoption attorneys are more transactional, but we are not just paperwork lawyers — we litigate when necessary and are trial-ready.
  • We focus on the adoptive parent, and we advocate for your rights, your voice, and your interests.
  • We break down complex legal concepts so that you understand each step and its consequences.
  • Adoption is deeply personal, so we make sure to combine legal strategy with empathy to help you achieve a secure and stable resolution.

Next Steps

If you are facing a contested adoption in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, do not navigate this alone. Contact Martine, Katz Scanlon & Schimmel, P.A. today for a consultation. Let us review your situation, explain your legal options, and chart a clear path forward.