Adoption

You want to adopt your grandchild, niece or nephew, or a child from foster care and don’t know where to turn. Call us. We can help.

​8 Things You Should Know About Adoption from Parents

8 Things You Need to Know Before Adopting a Child from Woman’s Day

We also do adult adoptions. Message Nancy on our Facebook Page or email her at nancyburnett@live.com.

Adopting Under Georgia Law

What Are The Laws And Qualifications For Adopting A Child In The State Of Georgia?

There are three primary qualifications to adopt a child in the State of Georgia. Hopeful adopters must:

• Be at least 25 or married;
• Be at least 10 years older than the child;
• Be mentally, morally, and financially able to take care of the child.

Courts take into consideration other things as well. They often conduct home studies and criminal background checks.

A criminal history does not immediately bar someone from adopting a child. If a person committed a simple misdemeanor long in the past they will likely be allowed to adopt, whereas a parent with a history abusing children will not likely be allowed to adopt.

What Is A General Overview On The Process To Adopt A Child In Georgia? Is It Any Different If You’re Related, Let’s Say It’s A Niece Or A Cousin Or A Grandchild?

The adoption of relatives, particularly step-parent adoption, is a somewhat streamlined process when compared to stranger adoption (what people generally refer to when they say “adoption”). The process is usually a little cheaper and easier, as the courts often do not require home studies.

A “stranger adoption” is a little more complicated. Home studies are required by law. The process takes two to three months, even if everything goes smoothly and there are no delays to your case.

How Long Does It Generally Take To Finalize An Adoption In Georgia?

The State of Georgia usually has a 30-60 day waiting period to get a court date after the adoption is filed. If everything is agreed upon and no one contests, you can complete the adoption on your court date.

Why Do I Need A Georgia Adoption Attorney To Help My Case?

In answering this question, a news story from several years ago comes to mind: an adoption was not filed and processed correctly. The three-year-old ended up being removed from the adoptive parents and returned to the legal father even though she didn’t know him.

This type of nightmare actually happens to people. Do not let it happen to yourself.

Our law practice is of the opinion that of all the different family law cases you may need an attorney for, adoption is one of the most crucial instances to have proper legal counsel and representation. For more information on Family Law in Georgia, an initial consultation is your next best step.