JLA Law Group

Adoption in Georgia: Build Your Family with Legal Security

Case Evaluation→(770) 609-9396

Adoption in Georgia is governed by Title 19, Chapter 8 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A. §§ 19-8-1 through 19-8-26). Several types of adoption are available: private domestic adoption, adoption through the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS), stepparent adoption, and international adoption. All adoption proceedings conclude with a hearing before the Superior Court.

For an adoption to be legal in Georgia, the biological parents must terminate their legal relationship with the child. This can occur voluntarily through adoption consent (surrender), which is irrevocable four days after being signed under O.C.G.A. § 19-8-9. It can also be terminated involuntarily through termination of parental rights (TPR), which requires proving specific grounds such as abandonment, abuse, or neglect under O.C.G.A. § 15-11-310.

After the biological parents' rights are terminated, the prospective adoptive parent must undergo a home study conducted by a certified social worker, unless it is a stepparent adoption (generally exempt under O.C.G.A. § 19-8-16). Once the evaluation is complete, the case is presented to the Superior Court for the final hearing and an Adoption Decree is issued.

Steps You Should Take

1

Initial Adoption Consultation

Call (770) 609-9396 to speak with an attorney experienced in adoptions in Gwinnett County. We evaluate your situation and explain the process step by step.

2

Determine the Type of Adoption

Your attorney will help you identify the most appropriate type: stepparent, private domestic, DFCS, or international. Each type has different requirements, costs, and timelines.

3

Document Preparation and Home Study

Gather identification documents, tax returns, personal references, and any documentation about the child. We will connect you with a licensed social worker for the home study.

4

Final Hearing in Superior Court

We represent your family at the adoption hearing before the Superior Court. Following the Adoption Decree, we help you obtain the child's new birth certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the adoption process take in Georgia?
The timeline varies by type. A stepparent adoption can be completed in three to six months. A private domestic adoption takes six months to a year. DFCS adoptions can take one to three years. International adoptions frequently take two to four years.
Can a single person adopt in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia allows single individuals to adopt under O.C.G.A. § 19-8-3. The court evaluates the prospective parent's ability to provide a stable, safe, and loving home without discrimination based on marital status.
What is a home study, and who conducts it?
A home study is a detailed evaluation of the home and suitability of the prospective adoptive parent, required under O.C.G.A. § 19-8-16. It is conducted by a licensed social worker and includes home visits, background checks, interviews, and income verification.
What rights does an adopted child have in Georgia?
A legally adopted child has exactly the same rights as a biological child under O.C.G.A. § 19-8-19, including inheritance rights, health insurance benefits, and Social Security benefits.
Can I adopt my partner's or spouse's child in Georgia?
Yes, stepparent adoption is governed by O.C.G.A. § 19-8-6. The consent of the noncustodial biological parent is required, unless their rights have been terminated. Once completed, the stepparent has all the rights and responsibilities of a legal parent.

Applicable Laws

O.C.G.A. §§ 19-8-1 through 19-8-26Georgia Adoption Law: requirements, process, consent, home study, and Adoption Decree.
O.C.G.A. § 19-8-9Irrevocable adoption consent: the surrender is irrevocable four days after being signed.
O.C.G.A. § 15-11-310Grounds for involuntary termination of parental rights (TPR).
O.C.G.A. § 19-8-19Rights of the adopted child: equivalent to those of a biological child.

Related Services

Custodia de MenoresDerecho FamiliarCambios de NombreDerecho FamiliarPaternidadDerecho Familiar

Other Family Law Services

D
Divorce
C
Child Custody
C
Child Support
P
Protective Orders
P
Paternity
N
Name Changes

Case Evaluation

Talk to a adoption attorney today.

Schedule Consultation(770) 609-9396

1250 Tech Dr, Suite 240

Norcross, GA 30093

Don't Wait. Every Day Counts.

The law has deadlines. Protect your rights today.

(770) 609-9396Online Consultation
CallConsult