Adoption in Georgia

Adoption allows individuals or couples to assume parental rights and responsibilities for a child or adult. People choose to adopt for a variety of reasons, such as the desire to grow their family, or the wish to provide a stable and loving home to a child in need. Adoption in Georgia is a complex legal process that often requires the guidance of an experienced attorney.

At Atlanta Holistic Family Law, we approach adoption from a holistic perspective. We recognize that every family is unique and requires a personalized approach. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of the emotional and legal aspects of the Georgia adoption process. Adoption is a beautiful way to create a family and we are here to provide the legal guidance and support needed to make that dream a reality.

We handle uncontested adoptions in Georgia, including:

• Stepparent, grandparent, or other relative adoptions
• Adult adoptions
• Agency adoptions

Stepparent, Grandparent, or Other Relative Adoption in Georgia

Relative adoption, also known as kinship adoption, is a type of adoption where a family member assumes legal parental responsibility for a child. This can include stepparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other close relatives. Relative adoption differs from agency adoption in that it does not involve an adoption agency or an intermediary between the birth family and adoptive family.

There are many benefits to relative adoption in Georgia. For example, it can provide stability and permanency for a child who may otherwise face a difficult home situation. It can also allow a relative who has been caring for a child to assume legal parental responsibility and make important decisions about the child’s upbringing. And relative adoption is typically less expensive than agency adoption.

The legal process for relative adoption involves several steps. The prospective adoptive parent has to file a petition for adoption with the court. Additionally, the birth parent or parents must consent to the adoption, or a court must terminate their parental rights. The adoptive parent will also need to complete a home study and attend court hearings to finalize the adoption.

At Atlanta Holistic Family Law, we have extensive experience working with families who have chosen relative adoption. We understand the unique legal and emotional issues that can arise in these types of adoptions and can provide the support and guidance needed to navigate the process. We help families achieve their adoption goals and ensure that their adoption experience is as stress-free as possible.

Adult Adoption in Georgia

Adult adoption is a process that allows one adult to adopt another adult. Adult adoption is not as common as traditional adoptions, but it can be wonderful for families who wish to formalize a relationship. Adult adoption is typically used to establish legal relationships between stepparents and stepchildren, or between other close family members.

There are several reasons why someone might choose to pursue adult adoption. For example, it can provide an avenue for creating a formal legal relationship between a stepchild and stepparent. Adult adoption can also formalize a relationship between an adult and their biological parent, or between other close family members.

The legal process for adult adoption is generally simpler than that for agency or relative adoption. The adult seeking to adopt will need to file a petition for adoption with the court, and the adopted adult will need to consent to the adoption. There is no home study or other screening process required.

At Atlanta Holistic Family Law, we have experience working with families who have chosen adult adoption. We understand that every family is unique, and we approach each adoption with the care and attention it deserves. Our team of attorneys can guide you through the legal process and help ensure that your adoption experience is as smooth as possible.

Agency Adoption in Georgia

Agency adoption is a type of adoption that involves a licensed adoption agency. In an agency adoption, the agency acts as an intermediary between the birth parents and the adoptive family. The agency is responsible for screening and matching prospective adoptive families with a child who is legally available for adoption. Once the child is placed with the adoptive family, the agency supervises the placement until the court finalizes the adoption.

There are many benefits to agency adoption, including the support and guidance of experienced adoption professionals. The adoption agency will provide aid and education to prospective adoptive parents throughout the entire process, from the initial application to the finalization of the adoption. The agency can also assist with finding a suitable birth mother, ensuring that all necessary legal steps are taken, and helping to facilitate communication between the birth mother and adoptive family.

The legal process for agency adoption involves several steps. Prospective adoptive parents will need to complete an application and a home study, which is a detailed assessment of their suitability to adopt. The adoption agency will then work to identify a child who is a good match for the family. Once a child is identified, the adoptive family will need to attend court hearings to finalize the adoption.

At Atlanta Holistic Family Law, we have extensive experience working with families who have chosen agency adoption. We understand the legal and emotional aspects of the adoption process and can help guide you through each step of the process. We provide personalized and empathetic support to our clients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Adoption can be a complicated and exhausting process, and there are many questions that families may have. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about adoption and the legal process in Georgia:

What are the requirements to adopt in Georgia?

The requirements to adopt in Georgia vary depending on the type of adoption. In general, prospective adoptive parents must be at least 21 years old, be able to provide a safe and stable home for the child and be able to pass a background check and home study.

How long does the Georgia adoption process take?

The length of the adoption process can vary depending on the type of adoption and other factors. Agency adoptions can take anywhere from a few months to a few years, while relative adoptions may be completed more quickly.

What are the costs associated with adoption in Georgia?

The costs of adoption can vary depending on the type of adoption and other factors. Agency adoptions can be more expensive than relative adoptions, and costs may include legal fees, home study fees, and other expenses. For agency adoptions, the costs can range from $30,000 to $60,000 or more. The cost of relative or adult adoptions is much lower.

Can birth parents change their minds after adoption?

In Georgia, a birth parent can revoke their consent for four days after signing the documents to give up their parental rights. The adoption is finalized after that four-day period has ended.

The revocation period in Georgia used to be 10 days, but the law changed. It is now four days.

Do I need an attorney for adoption?

While it is possible to complete an adoption without an attorney, it is highly recommended to work with an experienced adoption attorney. This will help ensure that all legal requirements are met, and the process goes smoothly.

Adoption is a beautiful way to create a family. Atlanta Holistic Family Law provides personalized support and guidance to families who are pursuing adoption.

We recognize that every family is unique and requires a personalized approach. Whether you are considering agency adoption, relative adoption, or adult adoption, we provide the support to make your adoption journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.

If you are considering adoption, we invite you to contact us to schedule a free 30-minute discovery call. Our attorneys can answer your questions, provide guidance, and help you take the first steps towards growing your family. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your adoption goals.