Office: 1-217-222-7420
Adoption & Guardianship Services
Compassionate Legal Guidance for Families in Missouri & Illinois
Expanding or protecting your family is one of the most meaningful decisions you can make.
Schuenke Law Firm provides supportive, detail-oriented legal representation for adoption and guardianship matters in Missouri and Illinois. Whether you’re welcoming a child into your home, seeking guardianship of a minor or vulnerable adult, or navigating complex family circumstances, Ryan Schuenke offers clear communication, compassionate guidance, and reliable advocacy from start to finish.
Ryan handles all adoption and guardianship matters personally — with the same level of care, attention, and clear communication that families consistently praise him for.
Adoption Services​
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Stepparent Adoptions
(Most common type; extremely search-friendly) -
Relative & Kinship Adoptions
(Covers grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles — perfect) -
Private / Direct Placement Adoptions
(When a family matches directly with a birth parent; no agency required)
Guardianship Services
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Minor Guardianship
(When a child needs a legal guardian due to safety, parental absence, illness, instability, etc.) -
Temporary or Emergency Guardianship
(Quick action when a child needs immediate protection) -
Adult Guardianship (Disabled or Elderly Individuals)
(Very normal practice area and extremely high-value cases)
Ready to Talk?
If you’re exploring adoption or need guardianship help, Schuenke Law Firm is here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and dependable legal support. We serve families throughout Missouri & Illinois and offer free, confidential consultations to answer your questions and help you understand your best options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adoption & Guardianship
What types of adoption does Schuenke Law Firm handle?
We assist with the most common and search-friendly adoption types, including stepparent adoptions, relative/kinship adoptions, and private or direct-placement adoptions. Our firm provides clear guidance from start to finish, helping families complete the process smoothly and correctly under Missouri and Illinois law.
How long does a stepparent adoption take in Missouri or Illinois?
Most stepparent adoptions are completed within a few months, depending on whether the noncustodial parent consents. We guide families through every step, including background checks, consents, court filings, and the final hearing.
Do both biological parents have to agree to an adoption?
Not always. If a biological parent has abandoned the child, failed to support them, or is unfit due to safety concerns, the court may allow the adoption to proceed without their consent. Every situation is unique, and we explain your options privately and confidentially.
When is guardianship needed for a minor?
Guardianship is typically needed when a child’s parent is unable to care for them due to illness, absence, incarceration, substance issues, instability, or safety concerns. Guardianship provides legal authority to make medical, educational, and daily decisions.
Can you help with emergency or temporary guardianship?
Yes. Emergency guardianship may be granted when a child or adult needs immediate protection. We help families obtain urgent court orders quickly and correctly.
Do you handle adult guardianships?
Yes. Adult guardianship is often needed when an elderly or disabled adult cannot safely manage their medical, financial, or personal needs. We guide families through evaluations, filings, and court proceedings with compassion and clarity.
How much does adoption or guardianship cost?
Fees depend on the type of case and the steps required, but Schuenke Law Firm keeps pricing straightforward and predictable. During your free consultation, we explain costs clearly so there are no surprises.
How do I start the process
You can begin by scheduling a free consultation. Our team will review your situation, answer your questions, and outline the steps needed to finalize an adoption or guardianship in Missouri or Illinois.