Davis, Chapman, & Wilder

Adoption

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Adoption Lawyers in Augusta, GA

Adoption is a joyful and life-changing step, but the legal process can be overwhelming without the right guidance. If you’re looking for an experienced adoption lawyer in Augusta, our team at Davis, Chapman, & Wilder is here to help you build your family with confidence.

Davis, Chapman, & Wilder provides trusted legal counsel for adoptive parents throughout Augusta, GA, guiding you through Georgia’s adoption laws with compassion, clarity, and experience.

Whether you’re pursuing a stepparent adoption, private adoption, or adopting through foster care, our adoption attorneys in Augusta, GA tailor legal support to your specific needs. From paperwork to final hearing, we’re with you every step of the way. Contact us online to schedule your consultation.

Understanding the Georgia Adoption Process

The Georgia adoption process includes several critical legal steps to ensure a secure placement for the child. Each case typically includes a home study, termination of parental rights, and a finalization hearing in court. Read the full Georgia DFCS adoption process here.

1. Home Study

A home study is an evaluation of the prospective adoptive family’s readiness and stability. It involves background checks, interviews, home inspections, and financial assessments. Georgia law requires this to be completed by a licensed adoption professional.

2. Termination of Birth Parents’ Rights

Whether voluntary or court-ordered, this legal step must occur before finalizing an adoption. Our attorneys ensure that all necessary consent documents or court petitions meet Georgia law.

3. Finalization Hearing

This final step occurs in superior court. If everything is in order, the judge issues a decree of adoption. You’ll receive a new birth certificate, and your rights as a legal parent are fully established.

What Can Disqualify You From Adopting in Georgia?

  • History of violent crimes or child abuse
  • Unresolved child welfare investigations
  • Severe financial instability or housing concerns
  • Failure to meet age (21+) or residency requirements

Georgia background check requirements help ensure child safety during adoption placements.

Why You Need an Adoption Attorney in Augusta, GA

While Georgia law allows you to file for adoption without an attorney, doing so can lead to costly errors. An experienced adoption attorney ensures that all documents are filed correctly, deadlines are met, and hearings are properly handled.

From home study concerns to birth parent consent and court representation, our team helps you avoid delays and protect your growing family every step of the way.

Types of Adoption Cases We Handle

At Davis, Chapman, & Wilder, our adoption attorneys in Augusta, GA provide compassionate, thorough, and personalized legal counsel for families at every stage of the adoption journey.

Contact an Augusta Adoption Lawyer Today

Ready to take the next step toward expanding your family through adoption? Schedule a consultation with a trusted adoption lawyer in Augusta, GA today.

Frequently Asked Questions


How long does the adoption process take in Georgia?

The adoption process in Georgia usually takes between 6 to 12 months depending on the type of adoption and the court’s schedule. Working with an adoption attorney in Augusta, GA can help avoid delays and keep your case moving smoothly.

Do I need a lawyer for a stepparent adoption in Augusta?

While not legally required, hiring an adoption lawyer in Augusta ensures all documents are properly filed and helps navigate sensitive steps like the termination of the noncustodial parent's rights.

Can a single person adopt a child in Georgia?

Yes, single individuals who are at least 21 years old (or married and living with their spouse) can adopt in Georgia. Our Augusta adoption attorneys work with all types of families, including single-parent households.

What documents do I need to start an adoption in Georgia?

You’ll need a home study, background checks, legal petitions, and consent or termination documents for birth parents. A knowledgeable adoption lawyer in Augusta can help you prepare everything correctly.

Can I adopt a child internationally while living in Augusta, GA?

Yes, international adoption is possible. You'll need to meet both Georgia and the child’s home country’s requirements. It’s best to consult an adoption attorney in Augusta, GA who understands both domestic and intercountry adoption law.