If you are considering the prospect of adopting a child in Georgia, you have to get a better understanding of the details of the thorough process. It is best that you understand how the process actually works or not. You need to understand that adoption is a varied process and a highly complicated one that involves several legalities. Although every adoption is often unique. Prospective adoptive parents have to consider some characteristics and steps before moving ahead with it. Once you have the right insight into the adoption process, as a family in Georgia, you will be able to get the best results.
Adoption is a great experience, and it can have a positive impact on your life, as well the child you adopt, families, and communities. Adopting a child in Georgia is surely a mature decision that will transform your life. However, you need to understand that the process takes time. It is not that easy, and often confusing and overwhelming. It involves several steps, and once you cross each one, it will take you a step closer to become a legal parent.
Here is a guide for you.
Step 1: Be Sure of the Type of Adoption You Want
In the first step of the process, you have to determine the type of adoption that you desire. Do you even qualify as prospective adoptive parents? When it comes to the types of adoptions, you have to consider the options that you have, including:
- Do you want to adopt an older child or an infant?
- Are you willing to adopt a baby domestically or internationally?
- Do you wish to adopt through a state foster system or a private agency?
- Have different contact levels with the birth parents, whether semi-open, open or closed.
Step 2: Choose the Right Adoption Attorney
For adopting a child in Georgia, you also need to have an experienced adoption attorney by your side. Tom Tebeau is an example of a professional who could help you complete the entire process. You should keep in mind that there are several adoption agencies and professionals available in Georgia. It could be an overwhelming feeling to sift through the numbers. However, with the right agency, you will be glad to make a worthwhile decision. When you choose the adoption attorney, you have to consider some factors.
- Evaluate how they offer guidance before and after the placement with prospective birth parents
- Get an estimate of their services, costs, and compare it to others. Watch out for any hidden charges
- Find out how long the waiting period would be, along with the adoptive family profile details. Understand the expectations before time
- Choose an attorney who would guide you through the process and help you find the child you are searching for in Georgia
Step 3: Complete Your Home Study and Create a Profile
Know that finding a suitable match for birth parents and adoptive parents will go swiftly when you meet up with the right requirements. The first step is to complete a home study. Although this may seem like you are sacrificing some privacy, it actually determines whether you can qualify as an adoptive family. It gives adoption professionals a glimpse into your lifestyle, the way you live and how it should help to find a suitable adoption. The next step is to create an adoptive family profile with the organization you choose as the adoption professional. Through this profile, birth mothers will be able to screen prospective families to adopt a child. Advice at this stage is, to be honest at all times. This should give birth mothers a clear idea of the type of adoptive family they should consider.
Step 4: Meet Birth Mothers
Once you screen profiles, the next step is to meet the birth mothers. Clear your schedule and make time to visit them, or get in touch on call. When you meet them, be as transparent as possible and communicate every expectation you have regarding the future. Be open with her, and let her feel comfortable with you.
Once she approves that you are the perfect match for her child, the legal process can then commence. Every situation is different, so you should choose an adoption attorney or lawyer for assistance at this stage.
Step 5: Proceed with the Adoption Process
With the help of an adoption lawyer, adopting a child in Georgia becomes an easier process. They will handle all the paperwork, and assist you through the legal process. Remain open throughout the process, and communicate clearly with the lawyer and the birth mother.
Rest assured that the process of adopting a child in Georgia might be a time consuming one, but surely worth your time and money. If you are ready to take the plunge into adoption today, make sure you consult an adoption attorney for further guidance.