
Adoption stems from loss, and there is no denying that fact. Among the happy and smiling pictures at every adoption agency, you will sense a feeling of sadness and confusion among children. Most people look towards adoption after they have a complete biological family or after issues of infertility.
These are typical cases, but what if you have a child you share a roof with, someone you love as if they were your own, but in reality, they aren’t connected to you biologically or legally. Do you want to make it official, but questions still fill your head? Sure enough, you are in the right place. Such adoptions aren’t sad; they are hopeful.
To help you make such a monumental progression in your life, call in an adoption attorney in Atlanta at the first chance. For your convenience, we have also assembled a series of frequently asked questions and replies to get you started. Let’s Begin!
Is the Consent of the Absent Biological Parent Required?
The consent of the absent biological parent is required if they are alive and well. There are two ways to resolve the issue of parental rights. If the birth parent surrenders rights of visitation and financial facilitation, their rights will be terminated and can be shifted to you. If that is not possible, the birth parent’s paternal rights can be contested in court for neglect, absence, or incarceration. If the absent parent is not physically or mentally able, you can challenge their rights. The ruling for adoption cases is under the jurisdiction of the courts, which is why you should pick your adoption attorney very wisely.
Does Child’s Age Matter in the Legal Process?
When you consider kids for adoption in Georgia, the legal process has slight variations for older kids. Anyone above the age of 14 has to write a consent letter verifying that their adoption is happening voluntarily. Sometimes, the child has to sign the verification form for consent as opposed to writing it.
Can The Absent Parent contest adoption?
The absent parent can contest the adoption at any turn. According to the state laws of Georgia, it is possible to nullify the rights of the custodian parent if they have left their child without contact for a year.
How to Tell the Child that you are Adopting them?
For starters, there are many parents who do not tell their children about the adoption. In later years, when these children accidentally find out, they fall into a very expected identity crisis. Speaking to children about such a monumental moment in their life can be daunting, but going about it the right way will benefit you and your child.