Adoption can be a difficult and lengthy process. The last thing an adoptive parent should have to deal with is an unsupportive employer during that process. Fortunately, a growing number of employers are providing adoption-related benefits, including reimbursement for adoption expenses and paid leave benefits comparable to those provided to biological parents.
Read moreOur Adoption Journey
The story of my own adoption journey that led to our beautiful daughter.
Read moreTaking a Leave of Absence for Adoption
After welcoming a new child through foster care or adoption, time off from work to bond with the child and adjust to the new family dynamic is incredibly special and often a necessity. Read below to learn how much time off is allowed, eligibility requirements, and additional benefits provided in California.
Read moreLauren Bates Named a 2019 San Diego Super Lawyers Rising Star
For the third year in a row, Lauren Bates has been named to the list of San Diego Super Lawyers Rising Stars!
Read moreDomestic Adoption Costs
One of the first questions that I am typically asked by hopeful adoptive parents pursuing domestic adoption is “How much does adoption cost?” Read below to learn about the cost range of domestic adoptions, where the money goes, and some tips for funding your adoption.
Read moreStepparent Adoption FAQs
Interested in learning more about adopting your stepchild or stepchildren? Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about the stepparent adoption process in California.
Read moreAdoption Temporary Identification Numbers
If you adopted in 2018 and are in the process of finalizing the adoption, but do not expect to have your child’s new social security number before tax filing time, then you can request an Adoption Temporary Identification Number (“ATIN”) from the IRS in order to claim the child as a dependent and (if eligible) to claim the child care credit. For more information on ATIN, and a link to the form required by the IRS, read below.
Read moreAdoption Quotes
Adoption Books We Love
There are so many wonderful children’s books with adoption-related themes; I could not possibly cover all of them in one post. Periodically, I’ll share the adoption books we love. Our daughter is 14 months-old, so we are drawn to shorter books with simple text and colorful pictures. Below are our current favorites.
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