Georgia Stepparent Adoption Lawyer
For families in which a biological parent has remarried and the stepparent wishes to become a full legal parent, proceeding with a stepparent adoption may be a positive step for the family unit. Ronnie Fishbein has assisted clients throughout Georgia with stepparent adoptions for over 25 years. She is committed to her clients, their children and the entire family's best interests.
Some children do not have a true relationship with their absent biological parent and view the stepparent as their mother or father. Stepparent adoptions ensure stability and security for the child and permit the stepparent to become a full legal parent. If desired, the child's last name can be changed as part of the adoption process. Some courts require an investigation in stepparent adoptions.
Ronnie is dedicated to educating her clients about their options and rights in stepparent adoptions. She will explain legal rights and the process in clear terms that allow clients to make the best decisions regarding the future of their family. She helps each family move through the process as smoothly as possible.
Termination of the Biological Parent's Rights: In a stepparent adoption, the court terminates the rights of the other biological parent. In doing so, the stepparent is able to become the legal mother or legal father of the child. The rights of the stepparent's spouse are not affected in any way.
Contested Adoptions
A court generally will not grant a stepparent adoption when the child's legal mother or legal father objects and is participating in the child's life in a meaningful manner. If a client is hoping to adopt a stepchild and the other biological parent objects to the adoption without merit, Ronnie can explore grounds for the termination of the biological parent's rights.
