Although we often think of children when discussing adoption, Georgia has a process whereby adults may be adopted as well.  This often arises in scenarios where a child adoption could not be accomplished for various reasons, and, as an adult, the former child still wants another person to be recognized as their parent (for example, a step-parent who has raised a child but was unable to adopt prior to the child reaching the age of eighteen (18)).

Under Georgia law, adult adoptions are governed by O.C.G.A. § 19-8-21, which states as follows:

“(a) Adult individuals may be adopted on giving written consent to the adoption. In such cases, adoption shall be by a petition duly verified and filed, together with one conformed copy, in the superior court in the county in which any petitioner or the adult to be adopted resides, setting forth the name, age, and residence of each petitioner and of the adult to be adopted, the name by which the adult is to be known, and his or her written consent to the adoption. The court may assign the petition for adoption for hearing at any time. The petition for adoption shall state whether one or both parents of the adult to be adopted will be replaced by the grant of such petition, and if only one parent is to be replaced, then the decree of adoption shall make clear which parent is to be replaced by adoption. After examining each petitioner and the adult to be adopted, the court, if satisfied that there is no reason why the adoption should not be granted, shall enter a decree of adoption and, if requested, shall change the name of the adopted adult. Thereafter, the relation between each petitioner and the adopted adult shall be, as to their legal rights and liabilities, the same as the relation of a parent and adult child.

(b) Code Sections 19-8-19 and 19-8-20 shall also apply to the adoption of adults.”

Whether you find yourself contemplating an adult adoption, or you just want to ask a few questions, be sure that you have an attorney looking out for your best interests.

The Sellers Law Firm, LLC, has years of experience in helping families grow through the adoption process, and we can help you on your new journey. Give us a call today at 770-415-9848 at The Sellers Law Firm, LLC: where clients become family.

You may also contact us online by submitting a case evaluation request HERE.

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