Indiana Family Lawyer Blog
CARMEL, IN – June 5, 2008 – Michele L. Jackson, an attorney adoption and founding member of JOCHAM HARDEN DIMICK JACKSON, PC, recently traveled to Guatemala to meet with government officials regarding recent changes in legislation affecting international adoption. Michele was accompanied by a member of her staff, Amber Burton Small, who serves as Director of Business Development for the law firm. They were joined by Brooke Randolph, a counselor providing resources for adoptive families at MLJ Adoptions, as well as Denise Safford, who processes adoption paperwork for the Marion County courts.
While in Guatemala, the group met with a representative of the Guatemalan Central Authority to discuss the progress being made on enacting adoption reform practices. Currently, the Guatemalan adoption program is restricted. In late 2007, Guatemala’s congress implemented new laws, and the U.S. and Guatemala are in the process of implementing Hague Convention on Inter-country Adoption. After finishing with the Guatemalan Central Authority, the delegation met with the Consul General at the United States Embassy to learn more about the State Department’s position on the adoption reforms.
In addition to their official meetings, the group traveled to two orphanages to take relief supplies and meet the children on-site. They spent time feeding and playing with children at the orphanages, and met with the directors to learn more about their perspectives on the changes in legislation and international adoption. The final day in Guatemala was spent sight-seeing in the ancient town of Antigua.
JOCHAM HARDEN DIMICK JACKSON, PC, is a Carmel law firm providing personalized service with a responsive and compassionate approach. Experienced attorneys offer assertive advocacy for clients complemented by a philosophy focused on minimizing conflict and negotiating resolution. With a collaborative team of professionals, the practice assists clients in all areas of family law, mediation, business litigation and adoption. For more information, please contact Jocham Harden Dimick Jackson, PC at 317.569.0770, or visit www.jhdj-law.com.