November is recognized as National Adoption Month, so it seemed a fitting time to launch my new website and blog. I have just barely made it as it has been a busy month!
I'm so excited to share this new website that is dedicated to my practice in adoption and assisted reproduction. While the website is new my work is the same. I love helping families grow through adoption and assisted reproduction. Since I began practicing adoption law 1995 there have been a lot changes both in my practice and in adoption itself. This blog will help me share about some of the recent changes in Georgia's adoption laws, and to outline some of the current best-practices in independent private, foster care, stepparent, relative and agency adoptions. I look forward to being a resource to anyone who is hoping to grow their family through adoption or assisted reproduction.
If you are thinking about fostering a child or growing your family by adoption now would be a great time to start your research! While the media (including social media) has been full of warm and fuzzy adoption stories be aware that there will be a lot of misinformation shared as well. Stories you might read about a successful adoptive placement may share about state laws relevant to that case, but remember it's important to check with a local attorney to see what your state's laws are. We will be highlighting some of the state statues specific to Georgia in coming blog posts, so be sure to check back often! Remember, Georgia adoption laws just went through a major update.
Several counties across the country have had wonderful celebrations for National Adoption Day where they have finalized thousands of adoptions. I will post some pictures to this blog of the wonderful ceremony put on by Debra DeBerry, Clerk of the Superior Court of Dekalb County and Judge Tangela Barrie and Judge Gregory Adams. I hope you can feel the love and excitement from the photos.
As always, any time you are starting a new process like adoption or assisted reproduction, you need guidance. The lawyers in the Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (https://adoptionart.org/) adoption laws. They can educate you and guide you through the process of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction in all 50 states.
TIP OF THE DAY: If you are lucky enough to have been matched with an expectant mother and do not have legal counsel I suggest that you go to the Academy’s website and learn more about why you need a legal expert to guide you through this process and find an attorney in your area who can assist you now.
