Georgia Adult Adoption Petition Template

Guidelines on Filling in Georgia Adult Adoption Petition

Filling out the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form is a significant step in formalizing the relationship between an adoptive parent and an adult adoptee. It requires careful attention to detail to ensure all information is accurate and complete. This form plays a crucial role in updating the adoptee's birth certificate to reflect their new legal reality. Below is a step-by-step guide to filling out this form properly.

1. Begin with Section 1: Before Adoption. Fill in the state file number if known.
2. Enter the adoptee’s first, middle, and last name at birth accurately.
3. Specify the adoptee’s sex and date of birth, providing the month, day, and year.
4. Detail the place of birth by stating the city, county, and state.
5. Record the mother’s name at the adoptee's birth, including first, middle, and last names.
6. Fill in the father’s name at birth (first, middle, and last) if applicable.
7. Move to Section 2: After Adoption. Here, you will detail the adoptee’s new information post-adoption.
8. Input the adoptee's new first, middle, and last name following the adoption.
9. For the "Current Legal Name" fields, provide the names of Mother/Parent 1 and Father/Parent 2, including their full names before the adoption if it has changed.
10. Record the date and place of birth for both adoptive parents or Parent 1 and Parent 2, including city, county, state, or country.
11. Select the correct status (Adoptive Parent or Natural Parent) for Mother/Parent 1 and Father/Parent 2.
12. Enter the address of Mother/Parent 1 at the time of the adoptee's birth and the current address of the adoptive parents.
13. Decide whether a new birth certificate should be prepared. If not, check the provided box.
14. Sign the form as the informant and title. Type or print the attorney’s name and address if they are assisting with the form.
15. Section 3 is to be completed by the clerk of court post-adoption decree and is not part of the initial filing.
16. Ensure all data is reviewed for accuracy before submission.
17. Attach a valid copy of your Photo ID with this form.
18. Prepare a U.S. Money Order or certified check for the correct amount payable to the State Office of Vital Records, including the processing and search fee, along with any fees for additional copies. Do not send cash by mail.
19. Mail the completed form and attached documents to: State Office of Vital Records, 1680 Phoenix Blvd, Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30349.

This form, once properly filled out and submitted, initiates the process of legally recognizing the adoption and facilitates the issuance of a new birth certificate if requested. It's essential to follow each step carefully, ensuring the adoption process complies with Georgia state laws.

What is the process to file an Adult Adoption Petition in Georgia?

To file an Adult Adoption Petition in Georgia, the petitioner, attorney for the petitioner, or a child placing agency representative must complete Sections 1 and 2 of the Certificate of Adoption (Form 3927, Revised 02/2018) and submit it along with the adoption petition or decree to the court. Following the court's final adoption decree, the court clerk will complete Section 3, certify the document, and forward it to the State Office of Vital Records in Atlanta. It is crucial to include all necessary fees and a valid photo ID with the form.

How much does it cost to process an Adult Adoption in Georgia?

The cost includes a processing fee and a non-refundable vital record search fee. Specifically, the search fee is $25.00, which includes one certified copy if the record is found. An additional $10.00 is charged as a processing fee. For each extra copy requested at the same time, an additional $5.00 is charged. Therefore, for one processing fee, one search fee, and two additional copies, the total cost would be $45.00.

What forms of payment are accepted for the Adult Adoption fees in Georgia?

The State Office of Vital Records accepts U.S. Money Orders or certified checks for the correct amount made payable to the State Office of Vital Records. Cash should not be sent by mail for these transactions. It's important to ensure that all payments accompany the completed Certificate of Adoption form submission.

Who is eligible to request a certified copy of the birth certificate after an adult adoption?

After an adult adoption, certified copies of birth certificates can be issued only to registrants (the person whose birth certificate is being requested) or applicants with a direct and tangible interest, such as a parent, guardian, or legal representative. This policy is in accordance with GA Code Ann., 31-10-26.

What information is needed to complete the Certificate of Adoption before and after adoption?

Before the adoption, the following information must be provided: State File Number, child's first, middle, and last name at birth, sex, date of birth, place of birth, and the birth mother and father's names. After the adoption, the form requires the child's new name and the current legal names, including full names at birth, of both adopting parents.

Is it mandatory to prepare a new birth certificate in the adopted child's new name?

While a new birth certificate showing the adoptive parent's names is typically prepared, the Certificate of Adoption form includes an option to request that a new certificate not be prepared. This choice must be indicated by checking the appropriate box on the form if the petitioner prefers not to have a new birth certificate issued in the adopted child’s new name.

What are the requirements for submitting the Certificate of Adoption form?

The form must be completed legibly and correctly, with all requested information provided. It should be accompanied by the appropriate fees and a valid copy of the requester's Photo ID. The completed form, along with the required documentation and payment, should be mailed to the State Office of Vital Records at the address provided on the form.

What happens after the court issues the final decree of adoption?

Once the final decree of adoption is issued, the court clerk completes the certification information in Section 3 of the Certificate of Adoption. This includes affirming the date of the decree, court file number, and the place of birth as indicated on the final decree. The clerk will then affix the seal of the court, sign the certification, and forward the certificate to the State Office of Vital Records for processing.

Who can sign the Certificate of Adoption as the informant?

The informant's signature on the Certificate of Adoption can be that of the petitioner, the attorney representing the petitioner, or a representative from a child placing agency involved in the adoption. It is important that the informant clearly print their title and provide contact information, including the attorney's name and address, if applicable.

How can one contact the State Office of Vital Records in Georgia regarding an Adult Adoption Petition?

For inquiries or further assistance with an Adult Adoption Petition, one can contact the State Office of Vital Records at 1680 Phoenix Blvd, Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30349. The office can also be reached by phone at 404.679.4702. It's advisable to have all relevant information and documents on hand when reaching out for assistance.

1. Not completing both Sections 1 and 2 of the certificate can lead to the rejection of the form since these sections are critical for pre and post-adoption information. People often overlook the significance of accurately filling out the child's information both before and after the adoption, which is essential for legal and record-keeping purposes.

2. Forgetting to include the processing and search fees when mailing the request is another common mistake. The form clearly specifies that a non-refundable vital record search fee and a processing fee are required. Some individuals either overlook or misunderstand this part, leading to delays. The correct amount, as indicated ($45.00 for the example provided), along with the method of payment, needs careful attention.

3. Neglecting to provide a valid copy of a Photo ID with the mailed request can halt the entire process. The form stipulates this requirement for verifying the identity of the requester, ensuring that certified copies of birth certificates are issued to authorized individuals only.

4. Choosing not to check the appropriate box indicating whether a new birth certificate in the adopted child’s new name, showing the adoptive parents' names, should be prepared. This decision is crucial for the official records and future identification of the adopted individual. Missing this step can lead to confusion or the need for corrections later.

5. Failing to sufficiently detail the adoptive parents’ information after the adoption, including their names and addresses, is a frequent issue. This information is pivotal for creating a new birth certificate and for historical and legal accuracy.

6. Incorrectly or incompletely filling out the certification information in Section 3, or forgetting to allow the clerk of court to complete it post-adoption decree, is a critical lapse. This section is vital for the legal certification and validation of the adoption, and any errors or omissions here can invalidate the submission.

When proceeding with an adult adoption in Georgia, the Adult Adoption Petition form, officially known as the Certificate of Adoption Form 3927, is just the beginning. To complete the process effectively and ensure all legal bases are covered, several other documents and forms may be required. These serve various purposes, from establishing relationships to ensuring the correct legal procedures are followed.

• Consent Form: This document is essential as it records the adult adoptee's consent to the adoption, which is a legal requirement for adult adoptions in Georgia.
• Original Birth Certificate of Adoptee: Providing the adoptee's original birth certificate helps to establish their identity and is necessary for the subsequent issuance of a new birth certificate post-adoption.
• Notice of Petition to Adopt: This form notifies interested parties about the adoption proceedings. Although not always mandatory in adult adoptions, it may be used in specific circumstances.
• Pre-Adoption Background Check (if applicable): In certain cases, a background check on the adoptive parent(s) might be necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the adoptee, even if they are an adult.
• Copy of Marriage Certificate (if adopting as a married couple): For married couples wishing to adopt, a marriage certificate proves the legal status of their union.
• Petitioner’s Financial Statement: This document outlines the adoptive parent(s)' financial situation to assess their ability to support the adoptee.
• Medical Examination Report: Although not always required, a medical report for the adoptee may be requested to ensure they do not have any significant health issues that have not been disclosed.
• Final Adoption Order: The conclusive legal document granted by the court that finalizes the adoption, officially establishing the adoptive parent-child relationship.
• Post-Adoption Contact Agreement (if applicable): In some adult adoption scenarios, an agreement outlining the contact between biological and adoptive families post-adoption is created, especially if maintaining relationships is desired.

Each document plays a crucial role in fortifying the legal structure of the adoption, safeguarding the interests of all parties involved. As complex as the process might seem, understanding the purpose and requirement of every form and document can demystify adult adoptions in Georgia, making it a smoother journey for everyone involved.

• The Application for a Marriage License shares similarities with the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form, particularly in how it requires personal information about the individuals involved (such as names before and after the event, places of birth, and dates of birth). Both forms are designed to officially record a change in status or relationship within state records.

• A Name Change Petition in the court system often requires detailed personal information similar to that in the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form. This includes current legal names and desired new names, as well as supporting information for the court’s consideration. For both documents, the submission leads to a legal reidentification of the individual(s) involved.

• The process of completing a Passport Application also mirrors aspects of the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form, particularly in how both require the provision of comprehensive personal details, evidence of identity, and, in some cases, a change of name or status. Both aim to update governmental records to reflect current factual circumstances accurately.

• Birth Certificate Request Forms have clear similarities with the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form, especially considering that after an adoption, a new birth certificate may be issued. Both forms require detailed information concerning the individuals' names (before and after the event), place of birth, and parentage, serving the purpose of documenting and acknowledging a revised legal status.

• Finally, Applications for a Social Security Card are similar to the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form because both involve the formal process of changing or updating an individual’s official records with the government. These changes can be due to a change in marital status, adoption, or other circumstances that necessitate a change in identification. Each requires verification of identity and legal status.

Filling out the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form requires careful attention to detail. The tips below help ensure the process is completed accurately and efficiently:

Do:

1. Print or type all information legibly to avoid misunderstandings or processing delays.
2. Verify all personal information for accuracy before submission, including dates of birth and places of birth.
3. Include the correct processing and search fees with your form, as outlined in the instructions, to prevent any delays.
4. Make the payment with a U.S. Money Order or certified check, as these are the accepted forms of payment.
5. Attach a valid copy of your Photo ID with the request to comply with GA Code Ann., 31-10-26, ensuring your eligibility to request the adoption.
6. Double-check the addresses provided, including both the before and after adoption sections, to ensure the new certificate is sent to the right place.
7. Ensure that the signature of the informant and the title are filled out clearly and correctly on the form.
8. Clearly indicate if a new certificate should not be prepared in the adopted child’s new name that shows the adoptive parents' names.
9. Communicate with the attorney involved, if applicable, to ensure their information is correctly listed on the form.
10. Review the entire form for completeness and accuracy before sending it to the State Office of Vital Records.

Don't:

1. Don’t leave any required fields blank as this may delay the processing of the adoption petition.
2. Don’t send cash by mail for the processing and search fees; use the specified forms of payment.
3. Do not guess information; confirm all dates and names are correct before submitting the form.
4. Don’t forget to check the appropriate boxes regarding the adoptive/natural parent status as this is crucial information.
5. Do not disregard the requirement for a valid Photo ID to accompany your request; it is necessary for verification purposes.
6. Don’t ignore the details regarding fees, especially if requesting additional copies; ensure the correct total amount is included.
7. Do not use informal language or nicknames; always use full legal names as required on the form.
8. Don’t overlook the need to inform the State Office of Vital Records if a new birth certificate should not be issued.
9. Do not submit the form without a signature, as unsigned forms will not be processed.
10. Don’t send the form to the wrong address; double-check the address for the State Office of Vital Records on the form.

When dealing with the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Understanding these misconceptions is crucial for an accurate and efficient adoption process.

• Adoption is only for children: Many believe that adoption processes are only meant for children under 18. However, adult adoptions are equally recognized and facilitated under Georgia law, allowing for legal relationships to be established or formalized between adults.
• Parental consent is needed: A common misconception is that the biological parents of the adult being adopted must consent to the adoption. In adult adoptions in Georgia, the person being adopted can consent for themselves, making parental consent unnecessary.
• The process is quick and easy: While adult adoptions might be less complex than adopting a child, the process still requires careful legal consideration, proper documentation, and sometimes, court appearances. It's not always a quick process.
• No legal benefits for adult adoption: Some people incorrectly assume there are no legal benefits to adult adoption. In reality, adult adoption can establish inheritance rights, solidify custodial rights, and formalize a parent-child relationship for various legal purposes.
• Biological parents' information is not needed: While the process focuses on the relationship between the adoptee and the adoptive parents, the form still requires information about the biological parents. This information is vital for the completion of the new birth certificate.
• Any attorney can handle the process: It's assumed that any lawyer could manage an adult adoption. However, it's beneficial to work with an attorney experienced in adoption law in Georgia to navigate the process efficiently and address any legal intricacies.
• The adoption form is the only document required: Filing the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form is a critical step, but it's part of a broader process that includes other documents and possibly court appearances or home studies.
• Certified copies of the adoption record are freely accessible: After the adoption, accessing the adoption record isn't as open as assumed. Certified copies of birth certificates post-adoption are available only to individuals with direct and tangible interests, such as the adoptee or the adoptive parents.
• The adoption's finalization is immediate upon submitting the form: Submission of the adoption form to the court does not mean the adoption is instantly finalized. The process includes a decree entered by the court, after which the vital records are updated, and a new certificate is issued.

Understanding these misconceptions can smooth the path for those considering or going through the adult adoption process in Georgia, ensuring all legal requirements are met and the process is followed correctly.

Filling out the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form, officially known as Certificate of Adoption Form 3927, is a vital step in formalizing the legal relationship between an adoptee and their adoptive parent(s). Here are nine key takeaways to understand the process and ensure the document is correctly handled:

• Sections 1 and 2 of the certificate should be filled out by the petitioner, their attorney, or a representative from the child placing agency and submitted alongside the adoption petition or decree.
• The final order of adoption, once decreed, prompts the clerk of court to complete Section 3, certify the document, and forward it to the State Office of Vital Records in Atlanta, Georgia.
• The State Office of Vital Records, where birth records from January 1919 to the present are maintained, charges a non-refundable fee for searching these records, including a processing and a search fee that together start at $25.00 for a certified copy if the record is found.
• Requesters of the certificate should include a U.S. Money Order or certified check made payable to the State Office of Vital Records along with a valid copy of their Photo ID when mailing this form to avoid cash transactions by mail.
• Georgia law specifies that certified copies of birth certificates may only be issued to the person whose certificate it is or to an applicant with a direct and tangible interest, such as a parent, guardian, or legal representative.
• Information provided in Sections 1 and 2 prior to and after adoption, respectively, must be printed or typed legibly and accurately to ensure the creation of an accurate new birth certificate that reflects the adoptive parent(s) names unless otherwise indicated.
• In case a new birth certificate in the adopted child’s new name, displaying the adoptive parents' names is not desired, a specific box within the form must be checked to indicate this preference.
• The completed form must include the signature of the informant, which can be the petitioner, attorney, or agency representative, alongside their title and address to ensure accountability and proper communication.
• Upon completion and submission, the date the decree was entered, court file number, and the county of the court, along with the place of birth as indicated on the final decree of adoption, will be verified by the clerk’s signature and presence of the court's seal.

Understanding these steps and requirements can make the adult adoption process in Georgia more navigable for petitioners, ensuring that all legal and administrative duties are fulfilled accurately and timely for the adoption to be recognized officially.