Dedicated Georgia Adoption Attorneys Deliver Knowledgeable Guidance

Augusta firm assists prospective parents during the placement process

Adoption is a lifelong commitment that should be joyous for everyone involved. However, with so many options and legal requirements, the process can be long and frustrating. Located in Augusta, Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm advises prospective parents in Richmond, Burke and Columbia counties as well as the surrounding areas. Our knowledgeable attorneys handle matters involving domestic and international placements whether you’re working with an agency or pursuing a private adoption. When you’re looking to grow your family, unnecessary mistakes and delays can be heartbreaking. We’ll make sure that you are prepared and that each legal task is handled professionally from start to finish.

Skillful advocates handle domestic and international adoptions

Many people are apprehensive about key decisions that must be made in order to adopt a son or daughter. By taking the time to learn about you and your values, we give you the information you need to choose the path best suited to your priorities. We represent clients with all types of adoption placements, including:

• Domestic — Georgians looking to bring a child into their home must be at least 25 years old and 10 years older than the child who will be placed. Should the parties select an open adoption, there can be later contact with the birth parent(s), but parental rights and responsibilities are shifted to the adoptive family.
• International — For many, the greatest adoption opportunity lies in a country outside the United States. Arranging an international placement, however, puts people in the position of having to comply with two sets of rules. Regardless of the nation involved, we’ll work to simplify the process.
• Private — Whether they use an agency or operate independently, individuals seeking to engage in a private adoption can rely on us to create enforceable agreements and avert needless problems.
• Stepparent — If you are the stepparent of a son or daughter and wish to adopt that child legally, we’ll draft the relevant materials meticulously and advocate for your interests if a dispute exists with another relative.

Our skillful family law attorneys handle a full range of domestic matters for Georgia clients, including divorce and child custody cases. We use the knowledge we’ve gained assisting clients across the area since 1988. If you’re interested in moving ahead with adoption but aren’t sure about the cost and legal burden, we’ll take the time to address your concerns in a free initial consultation.

Family lawyers help clients meet the requirements set forth by DFCS

Many steps must be completed before you can finally adopt your new son or daughter legally in Georgia. The state and private agencies conduct adoption preparation programs that discuss the family assessment, background checks and financial evaluation that must occur. We’ll make sure that you know what’s coming and can explain how to make the best possible presentation before the Division of Family and Children Services.

Contact a thorough Georgia adoption lawyer to schedule a free consultation

Joseph T. Rhodes Law Firm provides comprehensive guidance for Georgia residents who are looking to adopt a child. To learn about your options, please call 706-496-1616 or contact us online to meet at our Augusta office. We offer a free initial consultation and assist families in Richmond, Columbia and Burke counties as well as the surrounding areas.