Atlanta
ADOPTION ATTORNEYS
Building your family through adoption is one of life's most meaningful milestones. Our Atlanta attorneys guide you through every step of the legal process with care and expertise.
Adoption in Georgia
Adoption in Georgia is a legal process that permanently establishes a parental relationship between an adoptive parent and a child. Georgia law governs several types of adoption, including step-parent adoption, relative (kinship) adoption, private agency adoption, and independent (private) adoption.
The process involves court filings, home studies (in many cases), parental consent or termination proceedings, and a final hearing before a judge. Chisolm Trimble & Associates helps families navigate each step efficiently and with compassion.
“Every family deserves legal counsel that fights for what matters most.”
— Chisolm Trimble & Associates
Why Choose Us
Our Adoption Practice
Step-Parent Adoption
One of the most common adoption types in Georgia. We streamline the process when the biological parent consents — and fight for you when they do not.
Relative & Kinship Adoption
Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other relatives can adopt. We guide kinship families through the distinct legal requirements that apply.
Private/Independent Adoption
We represent prospective adoptive parents and birth mothers in voluntary private adoptions, ensuring all legal requirements are met.
Post-Adoption Services
We assist with name changes, amended birth certificates, and any post-adoption legal matters that arise.
OUR APPROACH
The Adoption Process in Georgia
1. Consultation & Eligibility
We discuss the type of adoption, assess eligibility, and outline the specific legal pathway and timeline for your situation.
2. Petition Filing
We prepare and file the adoption petition with the appropriate Georgia court.
3. Consent & Home Study
We manage the consent process and coordinate with home study providers where required by law.
4. Final Hearing
We represent you at the finalization hearing — the moment your family is legally complete.
SERVICE AREA
serving atlanta & surrounding cities
✦ Fulton County
✦ DeKalb County
✦ Cobb County
✦ Gwinnett County
✦ Clayton County
✦ Cherokee County
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Georgia Adoption — Common Questions
How long does adoption take in Georgia?
Step-parent adoptions without contested elements can be completed in 3 to 6 months. Private and agency adoptions typically take longer, depending on the circumstances and home study requirements.
Do I need a home study for a step-parent adoption?
In most step-parent adoptions in Georgia, a home study is not required. However, the court has discretion to order one if it deems it necessary.
What if the biological parent refuses to consent?
If a biological parent withholds consent unreasonably, we can petition the court to terminate their parental rights involuntarily, provided we can establish legal grounds such as abandonment or failure to support.
Can same-sex couples adopt in Georgia?
Yes. Same-sex married couples have the same adoption rights as opposite-sex married couples in Georgia following the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges.
Ready to Grow Your Family?
Our Atlanta adoption attorneys are honored to be part of your family's journey. Let's take the first step together.
