Work with our law firm during the third-party adoption process.
A third-party adoption is a type of adoption where someone other than a relative, such as a family friend, adopts a child. When the adoption process is finalized, the adoptive parent then becomes the legal parent of the child and takes on all the legal and financial responsibilities that come with this status.
Third-party adoptions can occur for many different reasons, such as when a child’s biological parents can no longer care for them or when a child is placed in foster care and a permanent home is needed. In some cases, a stepparent may seek to adopt a stepchild through the third-party adoption process.
Like all adoptions, third-party adoptions are meant to provide a loving, stable home to a child who needs one. However, complex legal proceedings can precede the adoption process, so it is important to seek the legal guidance of an experienced adoption attorney.
At Hildebrand Law Office, P.C., we oversee third-party adoptions throughout LaFayette, Georgia and the surrounding areas. Our adoption attorney has years of working on adoption cases of all types and will provide the compassionate, knowledgeable legal experience you are looking for.
We would be happy to provide you with more information on third-party adoptions and answer any questions you might have. Contact us today to start the third-party adoption process and set up a consultation with our law firm.
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FAQs About Third-Party Adoptions
Third-party adoption is the legal process by which a person or couple adopts a child who is not their own biological child. In these kinds of adoptions, neither of the birth parents keep custody of the child. Instead, the adopted parents legally take over the child’s rights and duties. Over the years, we’ve helped many families with third-party adoptions. Some of the questions we’re asked most often are listed below.
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What is a third-party adoption?
A third-party adoption occurs when a child is adopted by someone who is not related to them by blood or marriage. In this type of adoption, the birth and adoptive parents typically don’t have a pre-existing relationship, making it different from relative or stepparent adoptions.
Who typically engages in third-party adoptions?
Third-party adoptions are often pursued by individuals or couples who wish to adopt a child. This could include single individuals or couples without a biological connection to the child.
How does a third-party adoption process work?
The process for third-party adoption varies by jurisdiction, but generally involves working with an adoption attorney. It also typically includes a home study, termination of birth parents’ rights, a waiting period that varies according to each situation, and a finalization hearing.
Are there legal requirements for third-party adoptions?
Yes. We will review what legal requirements and documentation are needed and help you with the filing and completion of these. It’s important to understand that these requirements ensure the child’s best interests are protected and that prospective adoptive parents are suitable caregivers.
How long does the third-party adoption process usually take?
The duration of a third-party adoption can vary widely depending on factors such as the child’s age and the complexity of the case. It can take anywhere from several months to a few years.
At Hildebrand Law Office, P.C., we assist clients with third-party adoptions in LaFayette, Kensington, Rising Fawn, Ringgold, Fort Oglethorpe, and Trenton, Georgia.