Stepparent Adoption Lawyer in Augusta, GA

Stepparent adoption is a meaningful step in legally solidifying the bond between a stepparent and their stepchild. In Georgia, the law allows a spouse of a child’s biological parent to adopt the child under specific circumstances, providing the stepchild with legal rights and benefits equal to those of a biological child. At Boudreaux Law Firm, our experienced stepparent adoption lawyer in Augusta, GA, offers skilled legal representation to guide families through this important process and help them establish a stable, loving, and legally recognized family unit.

Understanding Stepparent Adoption in Georgia

Stepparent adoption laws in Georgia recognize the unique circumstances involved in these cases and set specific requirements:

• When a Biological Parent is Deceased: If a biological parent has passed away and the surviving parent has remarried, the stepparent can seek to adopt the child, provided the surviving parent agrees in writing.
• When Both Biological Parents are Alive but Divorced: If the child’s biological parents are divorced, the stepparent may petition for adoption if one biological parent agrees to surrender their parental rights voluntarily and the other consents to the adoption in writing.
• Child’s Consent for Adoption: If the child is 14 years old or older, they must also provide written consent for the adoption.

While the legal requirements for stepparent adoption may seem straightforward, there are numerous scenarios where an experienced adoption lawyer is essential to ensure the process is completed correctly. From filing the necessary paperwork to obtaining the proper consent and negotiating any post-adoption agreements, Boudreaux Law Firm is a trusted source for families throughout Augusta, Martinez, and Evans.

Why Stepparent Adoption Matters

Stepparent adoption offers significant benefits for the entire family:

• Legal Parental Rights: It grants the stepparent full legal parental rights and responsibilities.
• Stability and Security for the Child: It provides the child with the same legal rights and protections as a biological child, fostering a sense of stability and permanence within the family.
• Inheritance and Benefits: The child gains the right to inherit from the stepparent and may become eligible for benefits such as health insurance or Social Security.

For many blended families, stepparent adoption is an important step in strengthening their bond and protecting the future of their family. However, the process can involve legal complexities, making it crucial to have an experienced adoption lawyer by your side.

Effective Representation for Stepparent Adoption

Attorney Todd Boudreaux has over 25 years of experience in family law, providing effective legal representation to stepparents seeking to adopt their stepchildren. As a cum laude graduate of the University of Georgia School of Law, Todd is well-versed in Georgia’s adoption laws and has a strong track record of guiding families through the adoption process smoothly. He is admitted to practice in the State of Georgia, Georgia Court of Appeals, Supreme Court of Georgia, U.S. District Courts for the Northern and Middle Districts of Georgia, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit.

Todd’s dedication to delivering high-quality legal services has earned him recognition and memberships in the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, Georgia Bar Association, and Augusta Bar Association. At Boudreaux Law Firm, we are committed to helping families navigate the stepparent adoption process with confidence and peace of mind.

Key Steps in the Stepparent Adoption Process

The stepparent adoption process typically involves the following steps:

1. Filing a Petition for Adoption: The process begins with filing a petition for adoption in the appropriate court.
2. Obtaining Consent: The adoption requires the written consent of the child’s other biological parent (if living), or proof of their agreement to terminate parental rights.
3. Child’s Consent (if applicable): If the child is 14 or older, their written consent is also required.
4. Court Hearing: A court hearing will be scheduled to finalize the adoption, where the judge reviews the case to ensure all legal requirements are met.
5. Issuance of New Birth Certificate: Once the adoption is granted, a new birth certificate is issued, listing the stepparent as the child’s legal parent.

While these steps outline a typical stepparent adoption process, individual cases may involve unique challenges that require the assistance of a knowledgeable adoption lawyer.

FAQs About Stepparent Adoption

What is required for a stepparent adoption in Georgia?

In Georgia, the stepparent must file a petition for adoption, obtain the consent of the child’s other biological parent (or demonstrate the termination of their parental rights), and get the child’s written consent if the child is 14 years or older.

Can a stepparent adopt without the consent of the other biological parent?

In cases where the other biological parent does not consent to the adoption, it may still be possible to proceed if the court finds that the parent has abandoned the child or failed to support them financially. An attorney can help determine if this applies to your situation.

What legal rights does the stepparent gain after adoption?

Once the adoption is finalized, the stepparent gains full legal parental rights and responsibilities, including decision-making authority for the child’s education, healthcare, and other important matters.

Will the child’s last name change after the adoption?

Yes, the child’s last name can be changed as part of the adoption process if the family chooses. The new name will be reflected on the child’s new birth certificate.

Does the child need to consent to the adoption?

If the child is 14 or older, Georgia law requires the child’s written consent to the adoption. For children younger than 14, consent is not required.

Contact Our Stepparent Adoption Lawyer in Augusta, GA

If you are a stepparent seeking to adopt your stepchild, contact Boudreaux Law Firm today. Schedule a free, confidential consultation with our experienced stepparent adoption lawyer in Augusta, GA, to discuss your case and learn how we can help you navigate the legal process and protect your family’s future.