Adoption Solicitors Scotland

Adoption is a significant life event and the legal process can feel unfamiliar, particularly when court proceedings are involved. We advise individuals and families on all aspects of adoption in Scotland, including direct adoptions step-parent adoptions. Drawing on extensive experience of Scottish adoption law, we help clients understand their options, navigate the court process and move forward with confidence.

Specialist legal advice on adoption in Scotland

Adoption involves the creation of the parent and child relationship by the court. When adopted, a child is treated in law as the child of the adopter, as if he or she has never been the child of any other person.

We understand how difficult the adoption process can be and aim to make it as straightforward as possible, whether adopting a child in the UK or abroad.

Adoption in Scotland is governed by the Adoption and Children (Scotland) Act 2007. Scottish adoption law has its own court procedures and includes routes such as direct adoption, with the child's welfare at the heart of every decision.

Early legal advice can help families understand their options, timescales and responsibilities. We advise on step-parent adoptions and direct adoptions, helping clients navigate the requirements of the Scottish courts.

Our family law team, which includes a significant number of family and child law specialists, will support clients from their first enquiry through to the granting of an adoption order. Working closely with families, adoption agencies and other professionals, we provide expert advice at every stage of the adoption journey.

Sarah Lilley, accredited child law specialist and partner

Their thoroughness, internal coordination and genuine personal touch made a real difference. I was never treated like just another client, but rather I felt heard, understood and supported.

Chambers UK Guide, 2026

They were very proactive, they provided immediate response to any queries or concerns, and they were hugely supportive and genuine.

Chambers UK Guide, 2026

The adoption process: step-by-step guidance

Our family lawyers can provide you with guidance and representation in situations of direct or stepparent adoption; help you decide whether adoption is appropriate to your circumstances.

Downloads
Direct adoption process Scotland(39.99 KB)

Complex and contested adoptions

Some adoptions involve applications by stepparents and relatives seeking to provide a child with long-term security. We also advise on contested adoption proceedings, including cases where the court is asked to dispense with parental consent or where there is a dispute about whether there should be ongoing contact between the child and their birth parent(s) and the extent and nature of this. These cases often involve sensitive family circumstances, and we offer a careful, supportive approach whilst keeping the child's welfare at the centre of every decision.

As a firm, Brodies has taken the approach that you are the very centre of the process. You are given the feeling from the first engagement that you are important and very much cared for.
Legal 500 2026

International and cross border adoption

Increasingly, parents are looking to international adoption or adoption orders being made in other countries to complete their families. The rules relating to international adoptions are complex and this is a highly specialist area of law which can involve immigration and regulatory issues. Our immigration experts are on hand to supplement our advice on adopting a child from abroad.

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Common questions

What does an adoption lawyer in Scotland do?

An adoption lawyer in Scotland provides legal advice and representation throughout the adoption process. They can advise prospective adopters, birth parents and other family members on their rights and responsibilities under Scottish adoption law.

An adoption solicitor will help with adoption applications, which can include stepparent adoptions and direct adoptions. They can also advise on issues such as parental rights and responsibilities, consent, contact arrangements and the legal implications of an adoption order.

At Brodies, our adoption lawyers can guide you through every stage of the process, helping you navigate what can be a complex and emotional journey.
How do I find an adoption solicitor in Scotland?
When looking for an adoption solicitor in Scotland, it is important to choose a lawyer with experience in adoption and family law. Adoption cases are highly specialised and often involve sensitive legal and personal issues.

Our team provides;
- child law solicitors;
- the benefit of experience of acting for clients in adoption petitions; .
- clear, practical advice tailored to your circumstances; and
- transparent information about fees and likely timescales.
Brodies has one of Scotland's largest family law teams, with extensive experience advising clients on all aspects of adoption, including direct, agency adoptions, step-parent adoptions, and complex court proceedings.
How much do adoption lawyers charge in Scotland?

The cost of instructing an adoption lawyer in Scotland will depend on the circumstances of the case. Factors that can affect legal fees include the type of adoption, whether court proceedings are contested, and the complexity of the legal issues involved.

Complex cases can involve multiple parties and extended court proceedings.

A lawyer should provide information about their fees and discuss likely costs at the outset. At Brodies, we aim to provide clear and transparent information on costs so that clients understand the financial aspects of the process from the beginning.
Do I need a lawyer to adopt in Scotland?

You are not legally required to instruct a lawyer to adopt in Scotland. However, adoption is a formal and often complex legal process that ultimately requires an adoption order to be granted by the court.

A lawyer can help ensure that the necessary legal requirements are met, prepare court documents, liaise with relevant agencies and represent you during court proceedings if required. This can provide reassurance and help avoid delays during the process.

Many people choose to seek legal advice because adoption law in Scotland can be complex, particularly where issues of consent, parental rights or contested applications arise.
What are the legal steps for adoption in Scotland?
The legal steps for adoption in Scotland will vary depending on the type of adoption involved, but generally for direct adoptions include;
1. applying to an adoption agency or local authority (where relevant);
2. undergoing assessments and background checks to determine suitability as an adopter;
3. being approved as a prospective adopter;
4. being matched with a child and participating in a placement period;
5. applying to the court for an adoption order;
6. obtaining reports from the relevant adoption agency, local authority or independent professionals;
7. a court considering whether adoption is in the child's best interests; and
8. the court granting an adoption order, which transfers parental rights and responsibilities to the adoptive parent or parents.
The child's welfare is the court's paramount consideration throughout the adoption process. Once an adoption order is granted, the adoptive parents become the child's legal parents.

Adoption key highlights

Lisa Girdwood is Accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a Specialist in Child Law.
Find out more on our dedicated family law FAQ page.
With a team in Inverness we support clients across the Highlands and beyond, including Shetland, Orkney, Speyside, the Isle of Skye and the Western Isles.

Get in touch with a member of our Family team

Our adoption lawyers, family solicitors and mediators are personable and approachable. Our objective is to resolve matters for you as efficiently as possible, so that we can get the best outcome for you and your family.

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