When you adopt a child into your family in Georgia, you are making a selfless choice to provide a safe, happy home for someone who would not have one otherwise. At McCamy, Phillips, Tuggle & Fordham, we believe it is important for you as adoptive parents to be ready, both emotionally and legally, to bring a child into your home.
In order to adopt a child, you must be at least 10 years older than the child you wish to adopt. Married couples can file for adoption once they have lived together in marriage for at least six months. Otherwise, you must be at least 25 years old to adopt. A child above the age of 14 must consent to his or her adoption.
According to FindLaw, it is possible to adopt someone who has attained adulthood, although it is unusual. You may wish to adopt an adult in order to ensure that they inherit from you in the event of your death. In order to adopt an adult, there must be at least 10 years’ age difference between you and the adoptee, and the adoptee must also give consent.
Adoption does not necessarily mean bringing someone from outside the family into your home. It is not uncommon for extended family members to adopt grandchildren, nieces or nephews when the children’s parents die or otherwise become unable to care for their children. These adoptions are often referred to as relative adoptions or kinship adoptions. If your spouse has children from a previous relationship, you may wish to adopt those children as a stepparent. If both birth parents consent, this is a relatively simple process.
Adoption is a seven-step process that involves preparatory programs following an initial inquiry and proceeds toward the ultimate step of finalization when a new member joins your family. More information about adoption is available on our website.