Experienced Barrow County Adoption Lawyers

Compassionate Adoption Lawyers Supporting Families in Winder, GA

Giving a child a family and home when they do not currently have one is a beautiful thing. In some cases, a child may be an orphan, while in others, they may have a father or mother absent from their life. 

Unfortunately, adoption is often not as easy or straightforward as it should be. When capable adults are looking to qualify for adoption in either of the above scenarios, they will find there are a host of legal complexities they must navigate. At the Mitchell & Crunk Law Firm, our adoption lawyers in GA, are committed to helping families grow and write new chapters. Our adoption lawyers in Barrow County can assist you throughout the adoption process and help you overcome the obstacles you may encounter.

If you are interested in adopting a child, do not wait to seek legal guidance. Contact us online or call (678) 701-6252 to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our dedicated adoption attorneys in Barrow County, GA.

Why You Should Consider Hiring An Experienced Adoption Lawyer in Barrow County, Georgia

There are a wide variety of steps, requirements, and potential issues associated with the laws governing Georgia adoptions. A single complication can greatly prolong the process or prevent the adoption from taking place.

Adoption Requirements in Georgia

First and foremost, you must meet the following requirements to be eligible to adopt a child in Georgia:

• You must be at least 25 years old or married and living with your spouse
• You must be at least 10 years older than the child you are hoping to adopt
• You must be physically, mentally, and financially capable of caring for the child

There are other complexities, consequences, and applicable laws you will need to think about. Adding a member to your family is no small feat, and Georgia tightly regulates adoptions in even the simplest of situations.

When looking to adopt, you will need to consider:

• What type of adoption you wish to choose
• How adoption will impact your taxes
• How you will navigate mandatory court procedures
• Whether a same-sex couple is involved in the adoption
• Whether stepparents are involved in the adoption
• Whether the child’s biological parents abandoned them

Knowing how to respond to the above questions and situations requires a working knowledge of family law, and it is therefore not wise to attempt an adoption alone. Retaining legal representation throughout the process can help you avoid common mistakes, expedite your adoption, and ensure your rights – and the rights of your children – are completely protected. 

What are Adult Adoptions in Georgia?

Adult adoption is the legal process of an adult (18 years or older) being adopted by another adult. In Georgia, adult adoptions are legally binding agreements that involve relinquishing rights and responsibilities for those involved.

1. The person seeking to be adopted, known as the adoptee, must obtain a notarized affidavit of identity and consent from the court in order for the petition to be filed with the court. 
   • Additionally, consent from any living birth parents must also be obtained before this can take place.
2. Once all required information has been obtained, the adoptive parent will file a petition with the court which will then create an order granting permission for the adoption after it has reviewed all relevant documents. 
3. Afterward, both parties may submit a form to update their driver’s license or state ID card with the new name change resulting from the adoption.