When two parties disagree over an adoption, the situation is often stressful, and the child may feel uncertain about their future. If you are seeking legal help for this challenge, a Waleska contested adoption lawyer from Speights Law can represent you and work toward a favorable resolution.
For over 20 years, our family law attorneys have guided many Georgia families through complex legal matters. We know the state laws and procedures that govern these cases, so we can lead your case and use the evidence to support your position.
Whether you are an adoptive parent facing opposition or a biological parent challenging an adoption, our Waleska family lawyers will work toward securing the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
What Are the Legal Grounds for Contesting an Adoption?
When a biological parent or another interested party legally opposes the adoption of a child, they can contest or challenge the adoption.
Common reasons for contesting an adoption in Georgia include:
- The biological parent did not give voluntary consent for the adoption.
- The biological parent was not adequately informed about the adoption proceedings.
- The biological parent asserts they have not abandoned the child and have kept up a relationship with them.
- Doubts about the suitability of the adoptive parents or whether the adoption serves the best interests of the child.
O.C.G.A. § 19-8-18(e) lists what the court considers when reviewing what is in the child’s best interest. While the court is mainly focused on doing what is in the best interest of the child, it also must consider parents’ rights.
Both parties in a dispute can present arguments and supporting evidence before the court, which will then decide the outcome.
“We take pride in our ability to help our clients get to a better place.”
Call Us Today
770-479-1500Contested Adoptions in Waleska, GA – An Overview
In Georgia, contested adoptions follow strict state laws and rules to ensure the child’s best interests come first. Here’s an overview of how contested adoptions are handled in Georgia:
Starting the Adoption Process
The adoption process starts when a party files a petition for adoption. If the biological parent or another party wants to challenge the adoption, they must file an objection within a certain time, usually within 30 days of receiving notice about the adoption process.
Ending Parental Rights
Terminating a biological parent’s rights is an important part of a contested adoption. For the adoption to move forward, the court must decide if these rights can be legally terminated. This could happen if the court finds evidence of abandonment, neglect, unfitness, or failure to provide support. Termination of a biological parent’s rights in an adoption is a very high burden, and the adoptive parent must present clear and convincing evidence to support a ground for termination.
Court Hearings
After an objection is filed, the court will set up hearings to review the case. Both sides will present their evidence and arguments during these hearings. The judge will listen to testimony from various professionals, such as social workers, psychologists, and other experts, to decide what benefits the child.
Possible Results of a Waleska Contested Adoption Case
Several outcomes can result after a contested adoption hearing. Generally, any of the following may result:
- The court grants the adoption: The court grants the petition for adoption after deciding that the placement benefits the child.
- The court denies the adoption: The court denies the petition for adoption if it finds in favor of the contesting party and believes the party has shown how the adoption is not in the minor’s best interests.
How Our Waleska Contested Adoption Case Lawyers Can Help
Navigating the complexities of contested adoptions can be emotionally and legally challenging. Before we start a case, we will meet with you during a confidential consultation and offer straightforward counsel on how to proceed.
We manage the entire contested adoption process for our clients. If we represent you, we will:
- Explain how adoption works in Georgia and how to handle disputed adoptions.
- Investigate and gather evidence to support your case (e.g., character witness statements, financial statements, health records, guardian ad litem reports, etc.)
- Identify and address potential legal roadblocks to keep your case on schedule.
- Develop a legal strategy tailored to your specific situation.
- Prepare and file all necessary legal documents on time.
- Track all important case deadlines.
- Represent you in court.
- Negotiate with the other parties to resolve your case.
- Appeal an unfavorable court decision.
We encourage you to contact us as soon as possible. An adoption includes important deadlines and requirements. Failure to meet the deadlines or requirements could result in your petition or objection being denied by the court. Our contested adoption hearing attorney in Waleska can review your situation and advise you on the next steps.
It’s important to know that if the court grants an adoption, it is final and unlike other areas of the law, the court can’t modify or revise the judgment granting the adoption. This is why courts scrutinize adoptions so carefully from both sides. Contact an attorney right away to ensure your rights are protected.
Call us for a private consultation. We offer evening and weekend appointments to accommodate your schedule.
Tips for Managing the Contested Adoption Process
Handling a contested adoption can be challenging, but our Waleska contested adoption attorneys will also provide you with emotional support as we work toward resolving your case.
You can follow these tips to make the process more manageable:
- Stay organized: Keep all important documents, such as court papers, medical records, and communication logs, in one place. This helps you stay on top of deadlines and important information.
- Communicate clearly: Be honest and open in your communication with all parties involved, including your lawyer, court appointed investigators, and the court. Clear communication can help avoid misunderstandings.
- Be patient: Understand that contested adoptions can take time. Be prepared for a lengthy process and try to stay patient and focused on the best outcome for the child.
- Focus on the child’s best interests: Always keep the child’s well-being as your top priority. Make decisions that will provide the child with a stable, loving, and supportive environment.
Call Today for Help With a Contested Adoption in Waleska, GA
Contested adoption cases often extend over several months to allow time for hearings, potential appeals, and other procedures. At Speights Law in Canton, our Waleska contested adoption lawyers will give you full support, from gathering evidence to representing you in court.
We provide full legal services whether you need help with mediation, court appearances, or filing an appeal. Our goal is to protect your rights and ensure the best interests of the child. Call or contact us online to schedule a consultation.