Many adoptions occur within extended families often after years of such placements existing on an informal basis. Sometimes these arrangements are approved by Child Protection authorities; sometimes they are arranged privately; and often they involve individuals felt by family members to be "family" even if they do not fit into narrowly defined traditional categories of family relationships.

Relatives who are seeking to adopt, may automatically or by request fit into certain provisions of the statutes which may exempt them from certain requirements that normally apply in adoption situations. They may be able to proceed with lower cost; or may qualify for certain benefits, as a result. Relatives may also have different rights or privileges with regards to children in the foster care system or have a right to negotiate post-adoption contact in a different fashion. Here at Walling, Berg & Debele, P.A., our years of experience with all types of adoptions and all types of families makes us well suited to assist relatives in fashioning the best approach to their particular adoption situation.