Law Offices of Karen S. Law PLC

07/16/2026

Books can help children understand adoption in a positive, age-appropriate, and meaningful way. Through engaging stories and relatable characters, these books celebrate the many ways families are formed while helping children explore feelings of belonging, identity, and love. The following recommendations offer thoughtful and reassuring perspectives that can spark conversations and support children on their adoption journey.

Book recommendations in link: https://linktr.ee/lawadoption

07/16/2026

Did you ever wonder if your adopted child is a U.S. citizen? It’s clear if the child has a Certificate of Citizenship. But if they are older, they may have derived citizenship under former INA § 321 if they turned 18 before February 27, 2001. This can include some adopted children—but contrary to a common misconception, eligibility is not determined solely by having an IR-3 visa. An IR-4 visa does not automatically disqualify someone. The key is whether all the legal requirements under former INA § 321 were met before age 18.

You can check the requirements https://www.uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-12-part-h-chapter-7

If you have trouble determining your adopted child’s citizenship status, we are happy to help! Please contact our office at 703-723-4385.

07/08/2026

As of July 1, 2026, Virginia adoptees can obtain their original birth certificate! Such an important step forward for adoptees. Virginia was one of only 15 states that restricted adult adoptees' access to their original birth certificates. Thanks to recent changes in the law, adult adoptees in Virginia can now request and obtain a copy of their original birth certificate by submitting a written request and proof of identity to Virginia Vital Records using the VS-6 form. If a birth parent has filed a contact preference form, the adoptee may also receive a copy of that form, which could lead to direct contact with a birth parent. The State Registrar charges a reasonable fee for providing these documents.

This milestone was made possible through the tireless advocacy and dedication of the Virginia Adoptee Rights Alliance and the Capitol Coalition for Adoptee Rights (DC, Maryland, and Virginia), along with the many adoptees, birth families, legislators, and supporters who worked to restore this fundamental right.

https://virginiaadopteerights.org/
https://capitoladoptees.org/

07/06/2026

This is a wonderful resource for adopted children to explain adoption to their peers.

https://adoptionsupport.org/case-training-institute/w-i-s-e-up-program/?fbclid=IwY2xjawS4xJJleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFWZVZoZ1lwN1B3WG1pRWMwc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHlm7Ouyd0Mk9Njf01NbVGNM_F3mH_4B7VZFxRvoORLdB4zO4puqYDfh-JiaK_aem_s1d6loA1vsO19oZcqsUudg

W.I.S.E. Up!® is designed to help children express their feelings and prepare for questions and remarks about their adoption story.

06/29/2026

As of October 1, 2025, all new intercountry adoptions between the Republic of Korea and the United States must comply with the Hague Adoption Convention and related U.S. legal requirements. Prospective adoptive parents should work closely with their accredited adoption service provider and ensure they receive an Article 5 Letter before finalizing an adoption or obtaining legal custody in Korea.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/Intercountry-Adoption-News/adoptions-from-the-republic-of-korea-after-october-1--2025-.html

On October 1, 2025, the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-Operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Convention) entered into force in the Republic of Korea. The United States has determined that it will be able to process intercountry adoptions consistent with the Convention, ...

06/25/2026

Adoption is a life-changing journey that brings unique joys, challenges, and opportunities for growth. Whether you are an adoptive parent, a prospective adopter, or someone seeking to better understand the adoption experience, books can offer valuable insights, practical guidance, and heartfelt stories. The following recommendations explore a range of perspectives on adoption, helping readers build knowledge, empathy, and confidence as they navigate this important journey.

Book recommendations in link: https://linktr.ee/lawadoption

03/25/2026

Have questions about obtaining U.S citizenship for your adopted child? Our team has expertise and can guide you every step of the way. Learn more here:
https://www.lawadoption.com/citizenship

Article from NY Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/23/us/politics/foreign-adoptees-citizenship-immigration-enforcement.html?nl=the-morning&segment_id=217135

03/04/2026

Helpful info on refundability of the Adoption Tax Credit for 2026 and beyond

FS-2026-03, February 2026 — This Fact Sheet provides answers to frequently asked questions about refundability and Special Needs Determinations made by Indian tribal governments for the Adoption Tax Credit.

02/12/2026

The IRS has announced adjustments to the 2026 Federal Adoption Tax Credit!

01/14/2026

Want a refresher on adoption law? We've received great feedback on our Virginia Adoption Law: Hot Topics and Basics CLE course. Register here: https://www.lawline.com/course/virginia-adoption-law-hot-topics-and-basics

A refundable adoption tax credit in 2025, Virginia legislative changes, foster care regulatory changes, the SIJS backlog, and end to deferred action and work permits for SIJS approved children-all have changed the strategies and procedures for handling an adoption in Virginia. In this program, Karen...