Traditional Adoption

Traditional adoption covers adoptions through an agency or a private adoption between the birth parent(s) and the adoptive parent(s). Adoptions can be open or closed and can be interstate or international. Adoption is complex and each situation is unique. We have experience with the entire process including dealing with the termination of parental rights.

Stepparent Adoption

In Georgia, a stepparent may apply or petition to adopt a stepchild after the parental rights of the biological (non-custodial) parent have been terminated. If the biological parent is deceased or voluntarily gives up parental rights, the process is more straightforward. However, in cases where relinquishment of parental rights is not voluntary, the court will determine if there is justifiable cause or circumstances demonstrating that the biological parent has abandoned the child.

Relative Adoption

A relative (kinship) adoption in Georgia includes the adoption of a child by any of the following family members, whether related by blood or marriage: grandparent, great grandparent, aunt, uncle, great aunt, great uncle or a sibling. Often, the relative seeking to adopt is already raising the child in their home. Adoption by a relative can provide stability to a child whose biological parent(s) is unable to care for them due to issues such as addiction, mental health, teen pregnancy and incarceration, to name a few. Relative adoptions help preserve the family bond.

Contested Adoption

Our firm also can represent you in the case of a contested adoption. A contested adoption is one in which a biological relative or legal guardian objects to an adoption. These cases are always complex and require the skill of an attorney with expertise in this area of family law.

We Can Help

If you are seeking to grow your family through adoption, VanLanduyt Law has a deep understanding of Georgia adoption laws and is here to guide you at each step throughout the often-complicated process.