Couples have often used assisted reproduction technology methods to create their families. Even though both names appear on the birth certificate, one or both of them may not be genetically related to the child. While this is not a problem in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and some other states, it may raise an issue because a birth certificate is not proof in and of itself of parentage.

In order to have parentage recognized throughout the country, either a Judgment of Parentage or Judgment of Adoption is required. For those couples who do not have a judgment of parentage such as through the New Jersey Gestational Carrier Agreement Act, New Jersey has just made it easier to obtain a Judgment of Adoption by eliminating much of the “red tape.” Fingerprint and child abuse clearances will no longer be necessary. The entire process has been streamlined, and a court appearance will no longer be required. Not only does this make it easier and faster, but it also reduces the cost.

This will make sure that the parent/child relationship is recognized throughout the country.

Getting Legal Assistance During the Process

If you help with second parent adoptions or are considering it, contact the New Jersey adoption lawyer at Cofsky & Zeidman in Haddonfield at (856) 429-5005 or in Woodbury at (856) 845-2555 today to find out how we can help you.