Sharon Fast Gustafson, Adoption Attorney in Arlington, Virginia

Sharon concentrates on adoption, civil rights, employment, and wrongful termination. Each area below outlines the kind of case Sharon handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Adoption

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• Civil Rights

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• Employment

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• Wrongful Termination

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Sharon's primary office is at 4041 N. 21st St., Arlington, VA, 22207. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new adoption attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Sharon usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Sharon discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in adoption practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Sharon for a adoption case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Sharon walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Sharon offer a free consultation?

  Sharon charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Sharon's office. Some adoption attorneys offer free consults — check Sharon's current terms during booking.

• How long do adoption cases in Virginia typically take?

  Simple adoption matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Sharon gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Sharon take my case if I'm outside Arlington?

  Sharon is licensed in Virginia. Matters governed by Virginia law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Sharon will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Sharon?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Sharon will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Sharon accepting new adoption clients right now?

  Sharon's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.