Many couples want to have children when they marry, yet some couples are unable to have children of their own. Often these families look to adoption as a way to start a family. In 2016, over 12,000 children were in the custody of the state of Georgia, but the year prior just 843 children were adopted in Georgia. The state government is looking for new ways to help children get adopted.
What should you do if you are planning to adopt a child? If you have a question about family law or adoption, Vayman & Teitelbaum can help. Their experienced family law attorneys can give you insight on the adoption process.
Considering Adoption
In a previous blog, we explained how a family law attorney can help you understand the adoption process and decide what is best for you. If you have already decided that adopting a youngster is what you and your spouse want to do, then there are some helpful tips you should know.
In Georgia, the adoption process can take anywhere between four and 10 months. There are some requirements for the adopting family which include that you must be at least 25 years old, 10 years older than the child being adopted, and if married, you must be living with your spouse.
Think it Through
If you are considering adoption, it is important to think things through before you act. Adopting a child is a huge responsibility. Not only will you be taking care of a child, but you will also be taking on the financial strain of the adoption process.
It is Not as Expensive as You Think
You may often hear wonderful stories in the media about children from other countries being taken in by American families. This is wonderful, indeed. However, there are plenty of kids in Georgia and the rest of the United States that need good homes, as well. While international adoptions can be pricey, adopting a foster child can cost almost nothing. If you take the foster-to-adopt route, you can also receive a stipend from the state.
Misconceptions of Being Unwanted
Quite often there is a misconception that children who are up for adoption are unwanted and come from rough families that could not cope. That is not always true, and children who need adopting come from all types of mothers and fathers. You can help change a child's life and influence his or her future with adoption.
Possible New Law
Georgia politicians are currently mulling over an amendment to a bill that would see private placement groups protected from placing children with families they object to based on religious grounds. It is a controversial amendment to HB159, which was designed to help adopting families initially.
The bill could affect the changing face of America's families. No longer is the American traditional family home with two parents a reality. Many marriages end in divorce, and adoption is reflecting that. However, the amendment to HB159 could completely change that in Georgia.
Vayman & Teitelbaum Can Help
The law firm of Vayman & Teitelbaum can provide you with legal guidance when it comes to family law. With four locations in Georgia, Vayman & Teitelbaum, Attorneys at Law, is available to give you insight into family law and adoption. Visit our dedicated family law page to see how we can help you. If you have any questions, contact us and let our experienced attorneys in family law go to work for you.
