Someone I know is pregnant and wants me to adopt the baby in Georgia. What paperwork has to be completed to allow me to bring the baby home from the hospital and then to carry out the adoption? ...

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Someone I know is pregnant and wants me to adopt the baby in Georgia. What paperwork has to be completed to allow me to bring the baby home from the hospital and then to carry out the adoption?

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In Georgia, the mother of the

In Georgia, the mother of the baby can begin the adoption at any point after she becomes pregnant and the baby can be placed in your care at any time if the birth mother wishes to do so. For an independent adoption, or an adoption without the assistance of an adoption agency, the paperwork relinquishing the mother’s rights can be signed by the mother at any time after the baby is born. Be aware, however, that the birthmother has 10 days to change her mind after signing the documents. Next, you will file an adoption petition with the court to legally make the baby part of your family. The court will appoint an agent to review the petition to ensure all appropriate steps have been taken. To make the adoption final, you will appear before a Superior Court Judge at a hearing who will either grant or deny the adoption request. Under Georgia law, the court must hear your case within 120 days after you file the adoption petition. Adoption can be confusing, and it is advised that you discuss your case with an experienced Georgia adoption attorney. For more information, see http://dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov/independent-adoptions.

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In Georgia, the mother of the

In Georgia, the mother of the baby can begin the adoption at any point after she becomes pregnant and the baby can be placed in your care at any time if the birth mother wishes to do so. For an independent adoption, or an adoption without the assistance of an adoption agency, the paperwork relinquishing the mother’s rights can be signed by the mother at any time after the baby is born. Be aware, however, that the birthmother has 10 days to change her mind after signing the documents. Next, you will file an adoption petition with the court to legally make the baby part of your family. The court will appoint an agent to review the petition to ensure all appropriate steps have been taken. To make the adoption final, you will appear before a Superior Court Judge at a hearing who will either grant or deny the adoption request. Under Georgia law, the court must hear your case within 120 days after you file the adoption petition. Adoption can be confusing, and it is advised that you discuss your case with an experienced Georgia adoption attorney. For more information, see http://dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov/independent-adoptions.