Jackie and Savannah are amazing! They are fast and some of the nicest people I’ve had the pleasure of coming in contact with. I highly recommend this woman and appreciate everything she has done for us!!
Private Adoptions
Services Offered
Private Adoptions
Our team can help families finalize private adoptions after they have already worked with an adoption agency to find a child. While we are unable to help people find a child to adopt, we do have contacts within several legitimate adoption agencies and are happy to share that information.
For many families, the most important part of this stage is understanding what the legal process may involve after a match has been made. This includes preparing the required filings, understanding the likely timeline, and knowing what the court will consider before an adoption is finalized.
What to Expect
Several important steps before a private adoption is finalized
Private adoptions usually involve several stages before the final hearing. The child’s birth parents must voluntarily agree to terminate their parental rights, and the proper legal documents must be prepared and filed with the court.
Typically, the adoption petition is filed first, then the court secures a hearing date. The order setting the hearing may also grant temporary guardianship while the case is pending. At the final hearing, the judge reviews the case and decides whether the adoption is in the child’s best interest.
Helpful note
The legal work begins after a family has already worked with an adoption agency to find a child, not before that match takes place.
Why this matters
Understanding the filing process, court order, temporary guardianship, and final hearing can help families feel more prepared for the path to finalization.
Best fit for
Families who have already worked with an adoption agency and now need legal help carrying the process through to court finalization.
What we help with
Explaining the legal steps, preparing and filing adoption documents, guiding families through court procedures, and helping them understand what to expect before finalization.
What makes this easier
A clearer picture of the sequence of events, honest expectations, and a detailed retainer estimate before any payment is made.
First step
Call Jackie to talk through the facts of your situation, review where you are in the process, and receive a quote for the legal work ahead.
Call Jackie Today
Call Jackie to talk through where you are in the process, understand the likely next legal steps, and receive a detailed retainer estimate.
Every adoption is unique. We help you understand the process & make it easy.
DHS subsidized Adoptions and Legal Guardianship for foster and kinship families
Adoptions through West Virginia’s foster care system are fully covered by the state. However, because attorneys are reimbursed after finalization, some firms require upfront costs or charge more than what the state pays.
We will never ask you to pay any fees in advance or pay us more than what the state will reimburse.
Legal guardianship:
Legal guardianship is best used when a parent’s parental rights have not been terminated by the Judge during the course of an abuse and neglect proceeding or of when a child over the age of 12 years does not want to consent to or desire to be adopted. The child’s name can be changed or remain the same and the biological parent’s names remain on the birth certificate. This is permanent until the child turns 18 years of age.
Adult Adoptions:
The original birth certificate will now list the adoptive parents and that adults biological parent and the adoptee can also change their name if they desire.
Stepparent Adoptions:
Stepparent adoption can happen either through a biological parent voluntarily relinquishing their rights or by demonstrating abandonment, such as a lack of contact or financial support.
Costs vary based on each case, but you’ll receive a clear, upfront estimate before any payment is required, with flexible payment options available.
Private Adoptions:
We help families finalize private adoptions after the family has been approached or connected with a Mother who has determined that it would be in her unborn or born child’s best interest to be adopted. We also help families that have been connected with a child through a certified adoption agency. While we don’t match families with children, we’re happy to connect you with trusted adoption agencies to get started.
International Adoptions:
International adoptions are completed in the child’s birth country, and we help ensure that adoption is legally recognized in the United States. Once recognized, a U.S. birth certificate can be issued.
Costs vary by case, but you’ll receive a clear, upfront estimate before any payment is required, with flexible payment options available.
Why Families Trust Biddle Law Office
Fast & Efficient:
Paperwork is typically prepared within 24–48 hours of receiving your adoption packet — so you can move forward without delays.
25 Years of Experience:
Jackie has spent more than two decades helping West Virginia families navigate adoption with care, efficiency, and integrity.
No Hidden Costs:
The state covers all costs associated with DHS subsidized adoptions and the quoted retainer covers all costs associated with private adoptions.”
Compassionate Guidance:
You’ll work directly with Jackie every step of the way — from preparing your packet to your final court hearing.
Client Testimonials
Kind words from families we have served
Every adoption story is personal. These families shared what it was like to work with Jackie and the Biddle Law Office team.
I look forward to working with you!
Phone Number
O: 304. 522. 2204
C: 304. 617. 2093
Email Address
Mailing Address
422 10th Street, Suite 1 & 2
Huntington, WV 25701
© Biddle Law Office 2025
This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
I look forward to working with you!
Phone Number
O: 304. 522. 2204
C: 304. 617. 2093
Email Address
Mailing Address
422 10th Street, Suite 1 & 2
Huntington, WV 25701
© Biddle Law Office 2026
This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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