Archives for July 2025

Big Win for Growing Families: The Adoption Tax Credit Got Better

Adopting a child is one of the most beautiful journeys, but it can also bring financial challenges.  That’s why there’s an Adoption Tax Credit—a financial help from Uncle Sam. And now, the credit just got better for families in 2025.

What’s Changing?

Starting with the 2025 tax year—so when you file your taxes in 2026—the Adoption Tax Credit is going to be partially refundable. That means you can get up to $5,000 back as a refund, even if you owe less in taxes. This is a big deal, especially for lower‑income families or families who didn’t owe enough to fully benefit before.

What Was the Credit Before?

Previously, the credit was non‑refundable. It could only reduce your tax bill to zero. If your credit was more than what you owed, you couldn’t get the extra back—it just sat there. You could carry unused amounts forward for up to five years, but that’s it.

Why That Was Limiting

Let’s say you owed $3,000 in federal taxes and you qualified for a $17,280 adoption credit (the 2025 maximum). Under the old rules:

You’d use $3,000 to bring your balance to zero.

The remaining $14,280 wouldn’t be refunded. You’d have to wait to use it in future years.

If your income is not high enough, you might never owe enough taxes to use the full credit.

That’s a tough spot for families doing everything right but still stuck by low wages.

What’s New in 2025?

Thanks to law changes, the credit becomes partially refundable. Here’s a clearer breakdown:

Maximum Credit – The credit is up to $17,280 per adopted child in 2025.

Refundable Portion – Up to $5,000 of that can be refunded—even if you owe zero taxes.

That $5,000 amount will grow with inflation in future years.

Income Phase-Out – The credit starts phasing out once your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) is over $259,190.

If you earn more than $299,190, the credit phases out entirely and you can’t claim it.

Why It Matters More Now

For families who couldn’t use much of the credit before because they didn’t owe enough tax, this change means immediate help. NCFA (National Council for Adoption) highlighted in its recent press release that making the credit refundable “would ensure lower‑income families receive the same support” as others and send a strong message that adoption is supported across the board

What Counts as Qualified Adoption Expenses?

To claim the credit, adoptive parents need specific expenses. These include:

  • Adoption fees (agency, court, and legal).
  • Court and attorney fees.
  • Travel expenses (flights, gas, lodging, and meals during adoption trips).
  • Other required costs to complete your adoption legally.

However, expenses already reimbursed (like by your employer), payments to a surrogate, or costs for adopting a stepchild don’t count.

Special Needs Adoptions

If a child is designated as “special needs” by a state, you can claim the full $17,280 credit, even if your actual expenses were less. This provision ensures that families of special‑needs children aren’t disadvantaged just because costs were lower

How to Claim the Credit

To claim, here’s what to do:

  • Use IRS Form 8839 (“Qualified Adoption Expenses”)—that’s still the form to attach to your taxes.
  • Submit details about your adopted child, including SSN or an ATIN (if an SSN isn’t available yet).
  • File this with your Form 1040 when submitting taxes.

(Note: Form 8839 instructions and details are available through IRS.gov).

Why Partial Refundability is a Game-Changer

  1. Helps Lower- and Middle-Income Families

Previously, families with low tax liability couldn’t benefit fully. With this change, parents who pay little or no tax can still get up to $5,000 back per child—no waiting for future years.

  1. Removes Barriers to Adoption

Adoption is already expensive. NCFA President Ryan Hanlon emphasized that making the credit refundable shows a bipartisan commitment and helps families take on adoption without being held back by costs

  1. Supports More Adoptions

Over 108,000 children in foster care are waiting for adoption, plus more overseas or waiting through other systems

For families adopting special-needs children—who often bring extra expenses—this change removes yet another financial barrier.

Real-World Examples

Let’s break down how it works:

Scenario A – Lower and Certain Middle Income Families

MAGI: $60,000

Tax owed: $1,500

Qualified expenses: $18,000

Apply credit:

$1,500 lowers the tax to $0

Up to $5,000 refundable—get $3,500 back

Total benefit = $5,000, with a carryover credit of $12,280 ($17,280 – $5,000)

Without refundability, you’d only get $1,500.

Scenario B –Middle and Higher Income Families – No entitlement to refundable amount

MAGI: $185,000

Tax owed: $24,000

Expenses: $18,000

Benefit: Entitled to full credit of $17,280. No refundable amount, but full reduction in tax.

Scenario C – Higher Income Families – No entitlement to refundable amount

MAGI: $280,000 (within phase-out)

Tax owed: $45,000

Expenses: $18,000

Benefit:  Partial credit refund of $8,294. Reduced credit in phase-out. No entitlement to refundable amount

Scenario D – High Income Families

MAGI: $300,000 (just above the credit cap)

No entitlement to refundable amount or to any of the credit.

Additional Tips for Parents

  • Keep records: Save receipts, travel logs, court documents.
  • Form 8839: Fill out and track SSN or ATIN carefully.
  • Mark your calendar: 2025 taxes file in 2026.
  • Plan for inflation: The refundable part may increase in future years.
  • Ask for help: A tax advisor, adoption counselor, or an adoption attorney can guide you.

What NCFA Says

In their announcement, NCFA applauded Congress for passing the new rule and emphasized this:

“A refundable adoption tax credit would be life‑changing for so many institutionalized children… particularly critical for would‑be foster and kinship families constrained by lower or fixed incomes.”

They stressed that this not only improves financial access but also carries a strong message of support from lawmakers .

Why This Matters Now

  • Removes a key barrier: Finances shouldn’t stop someone from adopting.
  • Helps those who need it most: Lower-income, certain middle income, and fixed-income families now get immediate help.
  • Boosts adoption numbers: More families can now afford the transition.
  • Signals national support: Bipartisan backing shows caring from all sides of government.

For Special‑Needs Adoption

Because you don’t need to incur $17,280 in expenses—if states determine the child as having special‑needs—families still get that full amount of the credit. With the refundable portion, that’s a meaningful boost even when expenses are low.

Quick Takeaways

2025 tax year = refundable credit (filed 2026)

$17,280 max credit per child

$5,000 refundable portion, adjusted for inflation each year

Phase-out of the credit begins at $259,190 MAGI, and is gone at $299,190 for 2025

Qualifies: fees, court, legal, and unreimbursed travel

Special‑needs kids? Receive the full credit regardless of the amount of expenses

Form 8839 is your gateway

Your Next Steps if You’re Planning to Adopt in 2025

Track all expenses: get and keep receipts.

Check income: make sure you’re within phase-out range.

Watch for updates: Inflation may raise the refundable cap.

Get help: A tax advisor or adoption support group can help you through IRS Form 8839 and your specific state.

Share the news: Other families should know this better support is coming.

The Adoption Tax Credit was created to help families bring children home. By adding refundability in 2025, Congress has made a bold move toward fairness. This change isn’t just about saving money—it’s about making adoption a more real and hopeful option for families of all income levels.

If you’re adopting a child next year, this credit could mean thousands in financial relief—right when you need it most.

Adoption brings joy, hope, challenges—and costs. With this tax credit update, more families can step forward confidently. If adoption’s on your horizon, start prepping your paperwork and planning your budget now. And when tax time rolls around, you’ll have  valuable tax support ready to help make your family complete.

With over 30 years of experience, the Law Office of Cofsky & Zeidman, LLC has helped more than 2,000 families through adoption. Attorney Donald C. Cofsky and his team guide families through agency, private, stepparent, and international adoptions, as well as contested cases. Their support includes managing adoption expenses, completing home studies, and preparing families for court proceedings.

To learn how Cofsky & Zeidman can help your family, contact their office online or call (856) 429-5005 in Haddonfield, (856) 845-2555 in Woodbury, or (215) 563-2150 in Philadelphia. Legal confidence gives families peace of mind—so they can focus on what matters most: building a loving and lasting home for your child.

How to Legally Change a Child’s Name After Adoption

When you adopt a child, you may want to change their name. This is common and can be an important part of helping the child feel like part of the family. In many cases, you can change the child’s name during the adoption process. If not, you can still do it after the adoption is final. Here’s how it works.

Why Change a Child’s Name?

There are different reasons families choose to change a child’s name. Sometimes, adoptive parents want to give the child a new first or last name. This could be to match the family’s last name or to give the child a name with special meaning. In some cases, the child helps choose their new name.

No matter the reason, changing a name can help build a stronger sense of belonging.

When Can You Change the Name?

You can usually ask the judge to change the child’s name at the final adoption hearing. This is the easiest time to do it because everything is already going through the court. The judge can approve the name change in the same order that makes the adoption final.

If you don’t change the name during the adoption, you can still do it later. You’ll just need to file a separate name change request with the court.

How Do You Change the Name?

If the adoption is still in progress, you can:

  1. Talk to your adoption lawyer.

  2. Ask them to include the name change in your adoption paperwork.

  3. At the final adoption hearing, the judge can approve the new name.

If the adoption is already complete, you’ll need to:

  1. Fill out a name change form from your local court.

  2. Pay a filing fee (this amount depends on where you live).

  3. Attend a short court hearing, where the judge reviews your request.

In some places, the judge may ask why you want the name change. It’s helpful to explain that the child is adopted and that the new name will make them feel more connected to their family.

Do You Need a Lawyer?

You don’t always need a lawyer to change a name. But having one can make things easier, especially if you’re unsure what forms to file or how the court process works. An experienced adoption attorney can guide you and help avoid delays.

What Happens After the Name Is Changed?

Once the judge approves the new name, you’ll get a legal paper called a court order. This paper shows the old name and the new name. You’ll use it to update important documents like:

  • The child’s birth certificate

  • Social Security card

  • School records

  • Health insurance

  • Passport (if needed)

You may need certified copies of the court order to make these changes.

What If the Child Is Old Enough to Decide?

In some states, if the child is old enough (usually age 10 or older), the court may ask for their opinion. This helps make sure the child agrees with the name change and feels comfortable. Talking about the change ahead of time can help the child feel more included.

Changing a child’s name after adoption is a personal decision. It can be a meaningful way to show that your child is a full part of your family. Whether you do it during the adoption or afterward, the legal steps are usually simple—but it’s important to follow the right process.

If you have questions about name changes or adoption, it helps to work with a lawyer who understands family formation law.

At the Law Office of Cofsky & Zeidman, LLC, we’ve helped over 1,500 families through adoption and legal name changes. We’ll make sure every step is done right. Call us today at (856) 429-5005 in Haddonfield, NJ, (856) 845-2555 in Woodbury, NJ, or (215) 563-2150 in Philadelphia, PA. We’re here to help you and your family.

Celebrating “Gotcha Day”

Celebrating Gotcha Day is a meaningful milestone for adoptive families. It marks the day a child joins their new family and symbolizes a fresh start filled with love, hope, and commitment. This special occasion is celebrated by families who want to honor the journey of adoption and the moment when the child became a permanent part of their lives. It is a day that holds deep emotional significance and provides an opportunity for both reflection and celebration.

Gotcha Day is widely recognized by adoptive families as a day of unity and joy. It represents the moment when the child was welcomed into a nurturing home. For many families, the celebration goes beyond the legal process of adoption. It is a personal and emotional event that emphasizes the bond formed between the child and their adoptive parents. The day is filled with gratitude, and it reminds everyone involved of the sacrifices and love that made the adoption possible.

The emotional significance of Gotcha Day cannot be overstated. For adoptive parents, this day is a chance to celebrate the moment they said, “We got you.” It is a day that encapsulates years of hope, planning, and anticipation. At the same time, it acknowledges the child’s past experiences and honors the journey they have taken to arrive at a safe and loving home. The celebration often includes a mix of emotions, from joy and excitement to reflection and healing. Children who are adopted, especially those who are older or have faced hardships, benefit greatly from a day that validates their identity and emphasizes their worth.

One of the best ways to celebrate Gotcha Day is by creating special traditions that are unique to your family. Many families choose to mark the day with annual celebrations that become cherished rituals over the years. Some families host a festive dinner where everyone shares stories and memories. Others might plan a day trip, a picnic, or even a quiet family gathering at home. The key is to create a celebration that reflects your family’s values and honors the child’s background. Traditions can include anything from a special meal to a photo session that captures the joy of the day, or even writing letters that express feelings of love and gratitude. Over time, these traditions become a permanent part of the family’s story, building a legacy of love and commitment.

In addition to family traditions, many adoptive parents choose to involve the child in planning their Gotcha Day celebrations. This inclusion helps empower the child and reinforces their sense of belonging. When a child contributes ideas—whether it is choosing a theme, selecting activities, or even planning the menu—they feel more connected to the celebration. Their voice matters, and their input can transform the day into a truly personal event. Involving the child also provides an opportunity for the family to learn more about the child’s interests and cultural background, if applicable, and to integrate those elements into the celebration. This approach not only builds confidence in the child but also strengthens the bonds within the family.

For families that have adopted a child from a different cultural background, Gotcha Day offers a chance to celebrate diversity and honor heritage. It is important to integrate elements that reflect the child’s cultural roots. This might include traditional foods, music, dances, or customs that are significant to the child’s heritage. Embracing these elements shows respect for the child’s background and helps the child maintain a connection with their cultural identity. It also provides an educational opportunity for the entire family to learn about and appreciate traditions that might be new to them. A celebration that honors cultural heritage can be a powerful reminder that a family’s strength lies in its diversity and the unique experiences that each member brings to the table.

Alongside the celebration of cultural heritage, Gotcha Day is also a time for reflection. It is a day to consider the journey that led to adoption and to recognize the growth that has occurred since that momentous day. Families often use this time to discuss what the day means to them, share personal stories, and reflect on the challenges they have overcome. This reflection can be facilitated through activities such as writing in a family journal or creating a memory book. A memory book that documents each year’s celebration serves as a lasting record of the family’s journey. It captures moments of joy, struggle, and triumph, and over time, becomes a treasured keepsake that tells the story of the child’s life and the family’s bond.

Another meaningful way to celebrate Gotcha Day is by organizing a family event that includes extended family and close friends. These gatherings not only celebrate the child’s arrival but also build a wider support network. Friends and relatives who attend the celebration can offer additional love and validation, reinforcing the idea that the child is embraced by a caring community. Such events might include a shared meal, a group activity, or a simple gathering where everyone can express their well wishes. This communal celebration underscores the importance of a support system in the adoption journey and creates lasting memories for everyone involved.

While planning these celebrations, it is important to keep in mind that Gotcha Day is also a reflection of the legal journey that brought the family together. The legal process of adoption involves many steps, from the initial application to the final court hearing that solidifies parental rights. The secure legal status of an adoptive family provides the foundation for all celebrations, including Gotcha Day. Knowing that all legal requirements have been met and that the child’s rights are protected offers a sense of security and peace. This legal certainty allows families to focus on the emotional and celebratory aspects of Gotcha Day without lingering worries about the future.

Adoptive parents who work with experienced legal professionals are better positioned to enjoy these celebrations fully. At Cofsky & Zeidman, the team has over 25 years of experience in handling adoption proceedings. With more than 1,500 families guided through the process, their expertise ensures that every legal detail is managed with precision and care. This level of experience not only facilitates a smooth legal process but also provides families with the confidence they need to celebrate milestones like Gotcha Day with joy and security. The firm’s comprehensive approach covers all aspects of adoption, from managing expenses to finalizing legal agreements, ensuring that every adoptive family has a solid foundation on which to build their future.

Celebrating Gotcha Day is a multifaceted event that combines emotional, cultural, and legal elements. For adoptive parents, it is a day to celebrate the joining of a family, to honor the child’s journey, and to reaffirm the commitments that were made during the adoption process. It is a day marked by both reflection and celebration—a day that offers a moment to pause and appreciate the progress that has been made. It is a reminder that every adoption story is unique, and every celebration is a testament to the resilience and love of the family.

Families are encouraged to tailor their Gotcha Day celebrations to their own unique circumstances. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Some families may opt for a large gathering with extended family and friends, while others may prefer an intimate celebration with just the immediate family. The most important aspect is that the celebration feels authentic and meaningful to everyone involved. Whether through shared meals, cultural ceremonies, memory books, or quiet reflection, the goal is to create an atmosphere of love and inclusion.

As adoptive families plan their celebrations, they should also consider future planning. Gotcha Day is not just about commemorating the past; it is also a time to set goals and make plans for the future. Families can use this day to discuss what they hope to achieve in the coming year and to establish new traditions that will grow with the child. This forward-thinking approach helps create a sense of continuity and stability. It reinforces the idea that the adoption journey is ongoing and that every milestone is a step toward a stronger, more unified family.

Reflecting on the past, celebrating the present, and planning for the future all contribute to the richness of Gotcha Day. Each year, the celebration serves as a checkpoint, a moment to acknowledge how far the family has come and to look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead. It is a day filled with hope, love, and endless possibilities. The memories created on Gotcha Day are not only cherished by the child but also by the entire family. They serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made, the hurdles overcome, and the love that binds everyone together.

For adoptive parents, Gotcha Day is also an opportunity to educate others about the adoption process. Sharing the significance of this day can help raise awareness about the importance of adoption and the challenges that many children face. It can serve as a platform for advocacy, encouraging others to support adoption and to understand the complexities involved. By sharing their experiences, adoptive families contribute to a broader dialogue about family formation, cultural diversity, and legal support. These conversations can lead to increased understanding and empathy, ultimately fostering a more inclusive society.

It is essential for families to recognize that Gotcha Day is not solely about celebration but also about acknowledgment. It is a day to honor the legal and emotional work that went into forming the family. The secure legal framework that supports adoption is the backbone of these celebrations. Knowing that all legal aspects are managed professionally allows the family to focus on the emotional significance of the day. When legal matters are taken care of, adoptive parents can fully immerse themselves in the joy of the moment, confident in the knowledge that their child’s rights and well-being are protected.

At Cofsky & Zeidman, the focus is on providing comprehensive legal support that addresses every facet of the adoption process. From the initial consultation to the final court hearing, their experienced team ensures that every detail is handled with care and precision. This commitment to excellence is evident in the many success stories of families who have celebrated Gotcha Day with confidence and peace of mind. The firm’s approach is rooted in decades of experience and a deep understanding of the emotional and legal dimensions of adoption. Their expertise extends to managing expenses, conducting home studies, finalizing legal agreements, and even handling post-adoption matters. This all-encompassing support allows adoptive families to focus on what truly matters—the love and commitment that define their new family.

In conclusion, Gotcha Day is a significant milestone for adoptive families. It is a day that celebrates the joining of a family, honors the child’s journey, and marks the beginning of a lifelong relationship. The celebration is rich with emotional depth, cultural significance, and legal assurance. Families are encouraged to create their own traditions, involve the child in the planning, and reflect on the meaningful progress made over the years. With the right blend of celebration and reflection, Gotcha Day becomes a testament to the strength, resilience, and unconditional love that define adoptive families.

If you are navigating the adoption process and need expert legal guidance, know that support is available. At Cofsky & Zeidman, our experienced team is here to help you secure your family’s future. With over 25 years of experience and a track record of over 1,500 successful adoptions, we are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring a smooth transition for your family. We handle every aspect of adoption, from domestic and international adoptions to post-adoption agreements. Your peace of mind is our priority, so you can focus on celebrating every milestone—like Gotcha Day—with confidence and joy.

Your Gotcha Day celebration is not just about a single moment in time; it is a symbol of the love, commitment, and enduring strength of your family. It is a day to look back on your journey, appreciate the progress you have made, and look forward to the many wonderful moments yet to come. As you plan your celebration, remember that every moment is precious and every memory is a building block for a brighter future. Celebrate with joy, embrace your child’s heritage, and honor the secure legal foundation that made it all possible. May your Gotcha Day be filled with warmth, laughter, and the unwavering knowledge that your family is built on a foundation of love and trust.

Open vs. Closed Adoption from a Legal Perspective

Adoption is a life-changing journey for all parties involved—birth parents, adoptive parents, and the child. One of the most important decisions in the adoption process is whether the adoption will be open or closed. Each arrangement carries distinct emotional, social, and legal implications. Understanding these differences from a legal perspective is essential for adoptive families preparing to navigate the complexities of adoption.

In an open adoption, there is some degree of communication and exchange of information between the birth family and the adoptive family. This can range from occasional letters and photos to in-person visits, depending on the preferences of both parties. In a closed adoption, by contrast, there is no communication after the adoption is finalized, and records identifying the birth parents and adoptive parents are usually sealed.

Historically, closed adoptions were the norm in the United States. In the mid-20th century, societal attitudes toward unwed mothers and adoption practices placed great emphasis on privacy. Closed records were intended to protect all parties, particularly birth mothers, from stigma and to promote a sense of security for adoptive families. However, beginning in the 1980s and 1990s, open adoption became increasingly common as research showed that ongoing contact could benefit children’s emotional development.

Today, data from the Donaldson Adoption Institute shows that approximately 60% to 70% of domestic infant adoptions in the United States are now open to some extent. Each open adoption is different, and the level of openness is typically outlined in a formal agreement known as a post-adoption contact agreement (PACA).

From a legal standpoint, open adoptions present both opportunities and challenges. One key point to understand is that in most jurisdictions, including New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the finalization of an adoption legally terminates the birth parents’ rights. Even in open adoptions, birth parents do not retain parental rights once the adoption is completed. The adoptive parents become the child’s legal parents in every sense.

A post-adoption contact agreement outlines the expectations for communication between birth parents and the adoptive family after the adoption is finalized. These agreements might specify how often photos will be exchanged, whether in-person visits will occur, and how communication will be maintained (e.g., by email, phone calls, or letters). In some cases, they can also include agreements about the role extended birth family members, such as grandparents, may have in the child’s life.

While post-adoption contact agreements are common, their enforceability varies by state. In New Jersey, PACAs are legally recognized and enforceable under certain conditions. For an agreement to be legally binding, it must be approved by the court as being in the best interest of the child. Both the birth parents and adoptive parents must enter into the agreement voluntarily, without coercion. If disputes arise later, the court can intervene to enforce or modify the agreement if doing so would serve the child’s best interests.

Pennsylvania takes a similar approach. State law allows for enforceable post-adoption contact agreements, but only when properly negotiated, documented, and approved during the adoption process. In both states, it is crucial for families to have an experienced attorney who can draft a thorough and clear agreement, ensuring that all terms are enforceable and align with applicable legal standards.

Even with an enforceable agreement, it is important to recognize that the adoptive parents retain legal parental authority. They have the right to make decisions about the child’s welfare, including limiting or discontinuing contact if it is no longer in the child’s best interest. Courts are unlikely to force continued contact if there is credible evidence that doing so would harm the child emotionally or physically.

Closed adoptions, on the other hand, involve no ongoing contact between the birth and adoptive families. The adoption records are sealed, and identifying information is kept confidential. In New Jersey, for example, adoption records have historically been sealed; however, changes to the law in 2017 allowed adult adoptees access to their original birth certificates under specific circumstances. Pennsylvania also permits adult adoptees to request their original birth records through a similar process.

In a closed adoption, because there is no post-adoption communication planned or agreed upon, no post-adoption contact agreement is necessary. Legally, once the court finalizes the adoption and terminates the birth parents’ rights, the adoptive parents are the child’s sole legal parents without any further legal obligations to the birth family.

For some families, closed adoptions provide a sense of finality and privacy. They can be an appropriate choice in cases involving concerns about safety, domestic violence, or drug abuse. Closed adoptions can also be preferred when the birth parents or adoptive parents strongly desire to move forward without ongoing connection. However, it is important to weigh the potential impact on the child, who may later have questions about their biological heritage.

Research suggests that children in open adoptions often have fewer identity struggles during adolescence and feel more connected to both their birth and adoptive families. A 2009 study from the Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute found that adoptees who had some form of contact with their birth families generally reported higher levels of satisfaction with their adoption experiences than those who did not.

Nevertheless, openness must be handled thoughtfully. An open relationship that is inconsistent, confusing, or emotionally charged can sometimes cause stress for the child. Boundaries and clear communication are critical to maintaining a healthy open adoption arrangement.

Another important aspect of open and closed adoptions is how they impact access to medical history. In open adoptions, it is often easier to update a child’s medical history over time as birth families remain in communication. In closed adoptions, adoptive families usually receive a one-time medical history report at placement, but there may be no way to obtain future updates.

Regardless of the type of adoption, the adoption decree is the legal document that finalizes the child’s placement with the adoptive family. It gives the adoptive parents full legal rights and responsibilities for the child, and it severs all legal ties between the child and the birth parents. The importance of this legal foundation cannot be overstated, whether an adoption is open or closed.

Navigating the legal issues around open and closed adoptions requires experienced legal counsel. Families must ensure that their adoption plan complies with state laws and that any agreements made are properly documented and enforceable. Legal professionals can also help families understand what rights and responsibilities they are assuming through post-adoption contact agreements.

For more than 25 years, the Law Office of Cofsky & Zeidman, LLC has helped families throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania navigate the adoption process. Whether pursuing an open or closed adoption, their attorneys bring extensive experience to every case, ensuring that families are protected and prepared for the journey ahead. With over 1,500 adoptions successfully handled, their team is well-versed in drafting and enforcing post-adoption contact agreements, securing finalization hearings, and managing the legal complexities that arise throughout the adoption process.

Attorney Donald C. Cofsky, a Fellow and Immediate Past President of the Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys, leads the firm’s adoption and family formation practice. Their team understands that every family’s needs are unique and works closely with clients to ensure that adoption plans reflect those needs while protecting all parties involved.

To speak with an experienced adoption attorney, contact the Law Office of Cofsky & Zeidman, LLC online or call (856) 429-5005 in Haddonfield, (856) 845-2555 in Woodbury, or (215) 563-2150 in Philadelphia. Whether you are considering an open or closed adoption, experienced legal guidance can ensure that your family’s future is built on a strong and secure foundation.

Madonna Honors Her Daughters Cultural Roots

Adoption creates strong families built on love and commitment. At the same time, it often brings together people from different backgrounds, races, or cultures. For adoptive parents, raising a child from another cultural heritage involves more than providing a home. It also includes preserving the child’s connection to their roots, traditions, and identity. Maintaining a link to a child’s culture of origin can provide comfort, clarity, and confidence as they grow.

This is especially important in international and transracial adoptions, where children are often placed in families with different cultural backgrounds. Research shows that cultural identity plays a significant role in a child’s development. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, adoptees who retain strong cultural ties tend to have higher self-esteem and a better sense of belonging. When children see their culture acknowledged and celebrated at home, they feel seen, valued, and secure.

Public figures like Madonna have drawn attention to this issue. In 2017, Madonna adopted twin girls, Estere and Stella, from an orphanage in Malawi. Since then, the girls have returned to their birth country many times. In an interview with People Magazine, Madonna shared that Estere and Stella love visiting Malawi. They enjoy speaking Chichewa and connecting with local communities. Madonna described their appreciation for both their heritage and their new home. “They’ve learned, in time, that I’m their mother and nothing is going to change that,” she said, highlighting how love and cultural identity can coexist.

Bringing children back to their country of origin is one meaningful way to keep cultural ties alive. However, most adoptive families don’t have the resources or access for frequent international travel. Fortunately, there are many other ways to maintain and celebrate a child’s cultural heritage at home.

Language is one powerful tool. If the child’s first language or birth country language is known, parents can help them continue learning it. Language classes, books, music, and even cartoons in the original language can support language retention. Children don’t need to speak fluently to feel a connection, but recognizing familiar sounds or words can create a sense of comfort.

Food also plays a major role in cultural identity. Cooking traditional meals at home offers a tangible way to experience culture. Children can learn family recipes, try new flavors, and even participate in the cooking process. Meals shared together can lead to discussions about the child’s heritage and the people who share those traditions. Cooking becomes both a bonding activity and a way to reinforce identity.

Celebrating holidays and cultural events is another helpful approach. Participating in local or virtual events, parades, or community festivals allows children to see others who share their background. These events often include music, art, dance, and stories from the culture of origin. Including these traditions in the family’s annual calendar ensures they’re not forgotten. Over time, these celebrations become part of the family’s own unique rhythm.

Reading books and watching movies from the child’s country or culture of birth can also help. Children benefit from seeing characters who look like them or share similar experiences. Stories can teach history, values, and customs. They also open doors for important conversations about identity, belonging, and adoption.

Connection to community is another key factor. Families can seek out cultural organizations, support groups, or religious institutions that share the child’s background. Even in small towns, many cities offer cultural centers or meetups that welcome adoptive families. Building these relationships early creates a network of support for both the child and the parents.

Some children may eventually express a desire to learn more about their biological family. While not all adoptions allow for direct contact, others do. In open or semi-open adoptions, birth families may be known or accessible. In international adoptions, this is less common, but not impossible. When possible, respectful and age-appropriate communication with biological relatives can help children understand their story. In cases where contact isn’t possible, adoptive families can still honor biological connections through storytelling, photos, or mementos.

Parents should be prepared for questions about race, identity, and cultural differences. These conversations should start early and evolve over time. Acknowledging differences without judgment shows that culture is something to be respected and embraced. Children should know that their heritage matters. Adoptive parents can reinforce this message through open dialogue and positive reinforcement.

Studies show that children adopted across racial or cultural lines may face additional challenges, especially as they grow older. According to the Journal of Adolescent Research, transracial adoptees often face identity confusion during teenage years. However, when their adoptive families actively supported their cultural connection, these children reported stronger self-worth and lower anxiety. The more parents engage with their child’s culture early on, the more secure the child feels later in life.

While maintaining cultural connections is essential, it should never come at the expense of making the child feel out of place in their new family. Parents should aim for balance. The goal is to celebrate the child’s heritage while affirming that they are fully and unconditionally part of their adoptive family. It’s not about choosing between two identities, but learning how to hold both.

Every child’s needs and preferences will differ. Some may embrace cultural exploration with enthusiasm. Others may be more hesitant or uninterested. Parents should be guided by the child’s comfort level, while still offering opportunities to explore. With time, interest may grow. The important thing is to create an environment where culture is accessible and respected.

Support from professionals can also be helpful. Therapists, social workers, and adoption counselors often have experience helping families navigate identity issues. Talking with someone who understands adoption and cultural dynamics can benefit both parents and children. Therapy can be especially useful during transitional periods or milestones like school changes, puberty, or visits to the birth country.

Legal professionals play a vital role as well. Ensuring that the adoption process includes all proper documentation is essential, particularly for international cases. Citizenship, passports, and other legal documents must be in order to make travel or heritage connection possible. Families need legal support that goes beyond finalization. Post-adoption services, including name changes, updated birth certificates, and support with dual citizenship, are important to maintaining cultural ties.

Families may also need help navigating the legal aspects of open adoption, especially when birth families are from a different country or cultural background. Experienced legal professionals can draft agreements that respect the needs of both families while protecting the child’s best interests.

For more than 25 years, the Law Office of Cofsky & Zeidman, LLC has helped families build secure and lasting connections through adoption. With more than 1,500 adoption proceedings successfully handled, their team understands the importance of both legal stability and cultural continuity. Whether you are pursuing a domestic, international, or stepparent adoption, the firm can guide you through the entire process—from the home study to finalization and beyond.

Attorney Donald C. Cofsky and his team provide dedicated legal support for every type of adoption, including cases involving open agreements or international documentation. Their experience ensures that your family receives the legal foundation it needs to thrive, while also respecting the cultural background of the child you welcome into your home.

To speak with a legal professional about your adoption journey, contact the office online or call (856) 429-5005 in Haddonfield, NJ, (856) 845-2555 in Woodbury, NJ, or (215) 563-2150 in Philadelphia, PA. Taking this step can help you provide not only a loving home, but also a lifelong connection to the heritage that makes your child unique.

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