News – Sheridan Media
There are a number of legalities that one must go through if they wish to give their child up for adoption, or if they want to adopt, and one Sheridan attorney has not only helped make the process go smoothly, she’s been recognized for her efforts.
Debra Wendtland has been involved in adoption cases since 1992, and back in September, she was awarded the Champion of Justice Award for 2023 by the Wyoming State Bar.
When a mother wants to give up her child for adoption, Wendtland says she goes beyond just the legal documents, and courtroom appearances.
At times she’s been in delivery rooms, or even at a jail to help a mother cope psychologically, and even help a mom occasionally stay in touch with their child after the adoption process is complete.
Wendtland adds that about 90% of the mothers that want to give their child up for adoption go through with the process, and if mom changes her mind, she has other ways to help out.
“A young lady can go in and have her baby and once she holds that baby, she may say ‘I’m not doing the adoption,’ and then it’s my job, to make sure nobody pressures her. My job is to make sure her wishes are honored and if her wishes are to keep her baby, then my job is to help find her resources so that she can care for that baby and care for herself.”
Wendtland says she’s been involved in a little less than 200 adoption cases.
More Like this
Last modified: November 30, 2023