Adoption is a challenging issue at the best of times, but for gay couples it can seem impossible as they face a number of challenges that married, heterosexual couples do not. Adoption laws vary widely from country to country. Take the United States as an example. Even here, the laws differ from state to state. If you live in a state that accepts gay adoption, it may still be complicated.  Some states ban adoptions by any unmarried couples and some even have laws that specifically bar gay individuals or couples from adopting. If the child was born in another state then the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) requires the state in which the child was born to approve the adoption.

It is essential that a same-sex couple looking to adopt a child finds a lawyer who is familiar and up-to-date with the latest issues. Here are some things to think about:

1. Take time to look into the issues that relate to your case. Educate yourself on the law as it applies to you. Ask around to see if anyone you know has, or knows someone who has, been through a gay adoption. Look for a support group local to you and contact any organisations in your country or state. These may have lists of lawyers who will be able to understand the peculiarities of your case.
2. Once you have a list of possible lawyers, contact them. Prepare a list of questions to ask them so you can judge how familiar they are with your kind of situation. Do be aware that gay couples may be treated differently under the law so make sure your lawyer knows how to deal with those differences. Make sure the lawyer you choose has dealt before (preferably successfully!) with every aspect of your situation. In a way, what you are doing is interviewing for the best candidate.
3. You deserve to have an adoption representative who will take your legal issues seriously. If you are not comfortable with them and they are not comfortable with you then chances are the case will fail. The conversation is confidential, and you need to be comfortable talking to your lawyer about your family and your case, otherwise move on to the next one on your list.

There are plenty of good lawyers all over the world experienced at handling gay adoptions and will be glad to represent you. Take the time to do some homework, ask plenty of questions, and you will be well on your way to finding a lawyer who can help you build and protect your family.

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