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The Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form serves as a crucial document for individuals looking to adopt an adult in the state of Georgia. It consists of sections that must be filled out by the petitioner, the petitioner’s attorney, or a child placing agency representative. It begins by collecting essential information regarding the person being adopted, including their birth details and prior parental names. Following that, the form requires details of the adoptive parents, which will be used to create an updated birth certificate reflecting the new legal names. Once the adoption is finalized, the clerk of court completes and certifies the document, ensuring it is sent to the State Office of Vital Records. This office is responsible for processing the revised birth records, which are maintained from January 1919 onward. Additionally, applicants must be aware of associated fees, including a non-refundable search fee and processing costs for certified copies of the birth certificate. Specific criteria dictate who can request certified copies, typically limiting it to individuals with a direct interest in the record. Completing the form accurately and legibly is essential to facilitate the adoption process smoothly and efficiently.

Georgia Adult Adoption Petition Example

CERTIFICATE OF ADOPTION  FORM 3927 (REVISED 02/2018)

NOTE: Sections 1 and 2 of this certificate are to be completed by the petitioner, attorney for the petitioner, or the child placing agency representative (as applicable) and filed along with the petition or decree. When the final order of adoption has been decreed, the clerk of court shall complete the certification information below in section 3. The clerk shall affix the seal of the court, sign the certification and forward this certificate to: The State Office of Vital Records, 1680 Phoenix Blvd, Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30349.

At the State Office, birth records are available from January 1919 to present. A non-refundable vital record search fee has been established in accordance with GA Code Ann., 31-10 of the Official Code of Georgia in the amount of $25.00. This fee includes a certified copy, if the record is found on file. In addition to the search fee, there is a processing fee for each order. Each additional copy, purchased at the same time, is $5.00.

Example:

1 Processing Fee

$10.00

 

 

1 Search Fee

$25.00

 

 

+2 Additional Copies

$10.00

 

 

 

$45.00

 

If this request is being mailed, please forward this completed form with a U.S. Money Order or certified check for the correct amount made payable to the State Office of Vital Records. A valid copy of your Photo ID must accompany this request. Please do not send cash by mail.

GA Code Ann., 31-10-26 states that certified copies of birth certificates be issued only to registrants (i.e. the person whose birth certificate is being requested) or any applicant having a direct and tangible interest such as a parent, guardian, or legal representative.

PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE ALL INFORMATION LEGIBLY AND CORRECTLY BELOW.

Section 1: BEFORE ADOPTION

STATE FILE NUMBER

FIRST NAME OF CHILD AT BIRTH

MIDDLE NAME OF CHILD

LAST NAME OF CHILD

 

 

 

 

SEX OF CHILD

DATE OF BIRTH (MONTH, DAY, & YEAR)

PLACE OF BIRTH (CITY, COUNTY, & STATE)

 

 

 

 

MOTHERS NAME AT BIRTH (FIRST, MIDDLE, LAST)

 

FATHERS NAME (FIRST, MIDDLE, & LAST)

 

 

 

 

Section 2: AFTER ADOPTION (INFORMATION FOR NEW BIRTH CERTIFICATE)

FIRST NAME OF CHILD

MIDDLE NAME OF CHILD

LAST NAME OF CHILD

 

 

 

CURRENT LEGAL NAME: FIRST NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT 1

MIDDLE NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT 1

LAST NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT 1

 

 

 

FULL NAME AT BIRTH: FIRST NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT 1

MIDDLE NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT/ 1

LAST NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT 1

 

 

 

CURRENT LEGAL NAME: FIRST NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2

MIDDLE NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2

LAST NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2

 

 

 

FULL NAME AT BIRTH: FIRST NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2

MIDDLE NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2

LAST NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2

 

 

 

Page 1 of 2

PLEASE ADDRESS ALL CORRESPONDENCE TO THE ADDRESS BELOW.

STATE OFFICE OF VITAL RECORDS1680 PHOENIX BLVD. SUITE 100, ATLANTA, GA 30349 PHONE 404.679.4702

 

CERTIFICATE OF ADOPTION  FORM 3927 (REVISED 02/2018)

 

 

 

MOTHER/PARENT 1 DATE OF BIRTH (MONTH, DAY, YEAR)

 

FATHER/PARENT 2 DATE OF BIRTH (MONTH, DAY, YEAR)

 

 

 

MOTHER/PARENT 1 PLACE OF BIRTH (CITY, COUNTY, STATE,OR COUNTRY)

 

FATHER/PARENT 2 PLACE OF BIRTH (CITY, COUNTY, STATE, OR COUNTRY)

 

 

 

MOTHER/PARENT 1 (PLEASE CHECK ONE)

 

FATHER/PARENT 2 (PLEASE CHECK ONE)

Adoptive Parent

 

Adoptive Parent

Natural Parent

 

Natural Parent

ADDRESS OF MOTHER/PARENT 1 AT TIME OF BIRTH (STREET, CITY, TOWN, STATE, & ZIP CODE)

CURRENT ADDRESS OF ADOPTIVE PARENTS (STREET, CITY, TOWN, STATE, & ZIP CODE)

PLEASE NOTE: A NEW BIRTH CERTIFICATE IN THE ADOPTED CHILD’S NEW NAME WHICH SHOWS THE ADOPTIVE PARENTS NAMES WILL BE PREPARED UNLESS THE BOX BELOW IS CHECKED.

Do not prepare a new certificate in the adopted child’s new name which shows the adoptive parents name.

SIGNATURE OF INFORMANT

TITLE OF INFORMANT

 

 

TYPE OR PRINT THE ATTORNEY’S NAME

TYPE OR PRINT THE ATTORNEY’S ADDRESS (STREET, CITY, STATE, & ZIP CODE)

 

 

Section 3: CERTIFICATION INFORMATION

DATE DECREE WAS ENTERED (MONTH, DAY, & YEAR)

COURT FILE NUMBER

COUNTY OF COURT

 

 

 

PLACE OF BIRTH AS INDICATED ON THE FINAL DECREE OF ADOPTION (CITY, COUNTY)

 

SIGNATURE OF CLERK

____________________________________________________________________________

I hereby certify that the final decree of adoption concerning the persons named above was entered in this court. Please place seal over signature.

Page 2 of 2

PLEASE ADDRESS ALL CORRESPONDENCE TO THE ADDRESS BELOW.

STATE OFFICE OF VITAL RECORDS1680 PHOENIX BLVD. SUITE 100, ATLANTA, GA 30349 PHONE 404.679.4702

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Document Title The form is officially titled "Certificate of Adoption - Form 3927." It was last revised in February 2018.
Completing the Form Sections 1 and 2 must be completed by the petitioner, their attorney, or a representative from the child placing agency.
Final Order Certification Once the final order of adoption is granted, the clerk of court will complete Section 3 of the form.
Address for Submission The form and any required fees must be submitted to the State Office of Vital Records at 1680 Phoenix Blvd, Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30349.
Fees A non-refundable search fee of $25.00 is required, which includes a certified copy if the record is found. Additional fees apply for extra copies.
Payment Method Payments must be made by U.S. Money Order or certified check, made payable to the State Office of Vital Records. Cash should not be mailed.
Identification Requirement A valid copy of the requester's photo ID must accompany the application.
Legal Restrictions According to GA Code Ann., 31-10-26, certified copies of birth certificates can only be issued to registrants or those with a direct interest.
New Birth Certificate A new birth certificate will be prepared under the adopted child's new name unless a specific exemption box is checked.
Contact Information For inquiries, call the State Office of Vital Records at 404.679.4702.

Guidelines on Utilizing Georgia Adult Adoption Petition

After you complete the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form, you need to ensure that it is filed correctly, along with any required fees and identification. This process leads to the legal recognition of the adoption and a new birth certificate for the adopted individual.

  1. Begin with Section 1: Provide the Before Adoption details. Fill in the first, middle, and last name of the child as listed on the original birth certificate. Include the sex, date of birth, and place of birth (city, county, state). Enter the names of both parents at the time of the child's birth.
  2. Move on to Section 2: Fill in After Adoption information. Enter the child's new legal name, along with the names of the new adoptive parents.
  3. For each parent, specify their date of birth and place of birth. Indicate whether they are an adoptive or natural parent.
  4. Provide the current address of the adoptive parents.
  5. If you do not want a new birth certificate issued in the child’s new name, check the appropriate box.
  6. Sign the form in the designated area, including the title of the informant and the attorney’s information if applicable.
  7. Complete Section 3, which is the Certification Information. Leave these spaces blank as they will be filled out by the court clerk.
  8. Double-check all entries for accuracy and clarity. Ensure that everything is filled out legibly.
  9. Gather additional required materials: a valid photo ID and any necessary payment for the fees.
  10. Submit the completed petition form to the appropriate court along with the payment and ensure the documents are sent to the State Office of Vital Records.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form?

The Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form is a legal document used to formalize the adoption of an adult in the state of Georgia. This form initiates the legal process of adoption, allowing individuals to establish a parental relationship with an adult. Completing this form is essential for the court to process the adoption request.

Who can file an adoption petition in Georgia?

In Georgia, any individual or couple who meets the legal requirements can file an adoption petition for an adult. This includes parents wishing to adopt their adult children or partners wishing to adopt each other. There are no restrictions based on marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity, but a qualified attorney may be helpful in navigating the process.

What information is required on the petition form?

The petition requires personal information about both the adopting party and the adult being adopted. This includes full names, addresses, dates of birth, and the relationship between the parties. Details about the adult’s parents may also be necessary, depending on the circumstances surrounding the adoption.

Is a court hearing necessary for adult adoption?

Generally, a court hearing is not required for adult adoptions in Georgia. However, the court may schedule one to ensure all legal matters are addressed or if any objections arise. If the court does not see any issues, the adoption may be processed without a hearing.

What fees are associated with filing for adult adoption?

Filing fees for adult adoption can vary by county. There may also be additional costs for legal representation and for obtaining certified copies of the adoption decree or new birth certificate. It is advisable to check with the local court for detailed fee information.

What happens after the petition is approved?

Once the court approves the petition, a final decree of adoption will be issued. This decree grants the adopting party all legal rights and responsibilities toward the adopted adult. Additionally, a new birth certificate may be generated reflecting the adopting parents’ names, unless a request is made not to do so.

Can the adoption be undone?

In most cases, an adult adoption is permanent and cannot be undone. However, if there are legal grounds, such as fraud or coercion at the time of adoption, it may be possible to challenge the adoption in court. Legal consultation is recommended for specific questions about this scenario.

How can I obtain a certified copy of the adoption decree?

To obtain a certified copy of the adoption decree, you must contact the court that processed the adoption. A request form may need to be completed, and there will typically be a fee for the certified copy. It's essential to provide all necessary information, including the case number, to facilitate the request.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form can be a straightforward process, but many individuals make common mistakes that can delay or complicate their applications. One frequent error is failing to provide complete information about the child being adopted. It is essential to include all required details such as the child's full name at birth, date, and place of birth. Omitting even a single piece of information can lead to significant setbacks.

Another common mistake is not signing the form correctly. Signatures may need to be provided by the petitioner, the attorney, or the child placing agency representative. In some cases, all parties involved should sign. Make sure that signatures are present in the designated areas, as missing signatures can result in the petition being rejected.

Many individuals also overlook the requirement for a valid photo ID. When submitting the adoption petition, a copy of your photo identification must accompany the request. This is a necessary step to verify your identity and ensure the integrity of the process. Without the ID, your application may not even be considered.

People often forget to check the accuracy of the information before submitting. Typos or incorrect details can lead to confusion or delays. It is crucial to review the entire form thoroughly and confirm that every entry is correct and legible. Accurate details will help prevent return requests from the State Office of Vital Records.

Finally, submitting the payment improperly is another frequent oversight. Make sure to use a U.S. Money Order or certified check for the fees. Do not send cash, as this will result in your application not being processed. Include the correct amounts for search fees and additional copies if necessary. Ensuring that your payment is correct and properly processed is vital for advancing your adoption petition.

Documents used along the form

When navigating the process of adult adoption in Georgia, various forms and documents may be needed alongside the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition. Understanding these documents can help ensure a smoother experience. Below is a list of some commonly required forms that accompany the petition.

  • Certificate of Adoption (Form 3927): This certificate needs to be completed and submitted along with the adoption petition. It is later finalized by the court clerk to certify the adoption after the decree has been entered.
  • Consent to Adoption: This document is required to obtain consent from the individual being adopted and may also include agreements from spouses or partners if applicable. Proper completion ensures all parties are in agreement with the adoption process.
  • Affidavit of Physical Filial Relationship: This form is to declare the nature of the relationship between the adoptive parents and the adult being adopted. It serves as evidence supporting the adoption request.
  • Background Information Form: Also known as a social history report, this form gathers important details about the adoptive parents and the adult being adopted. It may include information regarding health, education, and family background.
  • Final Decree of Adoption: After the petition is approved, this document formally finalizes the adoption. It is issued by the court and signifies that the adoption has been legally recognized.
  • Application for a New Birth Certificate: Once the adoption is finalized, this application can be submitted to request an updated birth certificate reflecting the adopted individual’s new legal name and the names of their adoptive parents.

Understanding these documents can greatly enhance the experience of adult adoption in Georgia. Having the necessary paperwork ready will help streamline the process and ensure that all legal requirements are met. Each form plays a crucial role in affirming the adoption, providing clarity and legal recognition for the new familial relationships.

Similar forms

The Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form is an essential document for those looking to adopt an adult in the state of Georgia. Similar forms serve important purposes in various legal and personal contexts. Here are four documents that share similarities with the Adult Adoption Petition form:

  • Petition for Name Change: This document allows individuals to formally change their name. Just like the adoption form, it requires specific personal information, including current and previous names, and is submitted to the court. The process is governed by state laws to ensure all necessary procedures are followed.
  • Marriage Certificate Application: When a couple marries, a marriage certificate must be obtained. This application collects key details about both parties, such as names and birth dates, similar to the personal information required in the adoption petition. Both documents need to be filed with the appropriate governmental office to be finalized.
  • Divorce Petition: A divorce petition lays out the grounds for a divorce and details the necessary information about both spouses. Like the adoption petition, it involves a legal process requiring submission to a court and includes data pertinent to the individuals involved, aiming to protect the rights and responsibilities post-relationship.
  • Birth Certificate Application: This application requests a copy of an individual's birth certificate, which may be needed for various legal purposes, including adoption. Similar requirements exist, such as providing personal identification and accurate details about one's birth, underscoring the importance of maintaining accurate vital records.

Dos and Don'ts

Do:

  • Print or type all information legibly and correctly.
  • Ensure you have the correct state file number before submitting the form.
  • Include all relevant names, including both the child's birth name and the adoptive names.
  • Double-check the dates of birth for accuracy.
  • Provide a valid photo ID when mailing your request.
  • Use a U.S. Money Order or certified check for payment, never cash.
  • Mail the petition and forms to the correct address, ensuring you include all required documents.

Don't:

  • Do not leave any blank spaces on the form; fill out every field.
  • Do not use incorrect names or spelling errors in the application.
  • Do not forget to check the appropriate boxes for parental status.
  • Do not submit without including the necessary fees for the search and copies.
  • Do not attempt to send the application without reviewing it first.
  • Do not use cash as payment when mailing your request.
  • Do not provide any false information or misrepresent any details in the form.

Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions surrounding the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form. Here’s a clear breakdown of some of the most common misunderstandings:

  • Adult Adoption is Only for Step-Parents: Many believe that adult adoption is limited to step-parents adopting their stepchildren. In reality, anyone can adopt an adult for various reasons, including inheritance and legal recognition of relationships.
  • The Process is the Same as for Minors: Some think the process for adopting an adult is the same as for a minor. While there are similarities, the procedures and forms can differ significantly, mainly due to the legal rights already held by adults.
  • An Attorney is Required: A common belief is that hiring an attorney is mandatory. While it's advisable to seek legal counsel for guidance, you can technically file for adult adoption on your own.
  • Consent is Not Necessary: It’s a misconception that you don't need consent from the adult being adopted. Clear and voluntary consent from the individual is required for the adoption process to proceed.
  • Adoption Records are Open to the Public: Some people think that adoption records can be accessed by anyone. However, adoption records in Georgia are generally sealed and can only be accessed by certain individuals or under specific circumstances.
  • The Adult Adoption Petition is Complicated: Many fear that the petition form is overwhelmingly complex. In truth, while it requires careful attention to detail, the form is straightforward and can be completed with basic information.
  • Adoption Only Affects Legal Rights: Another misconception is that adoption doesn't impact emotional bonds. In reality, adult adoption can strengthen familial ties and provide emotional security between the parties involved.
  • Fees are Unaffordable: Some hesitate to start the adoption process due to concerns about costs. While there are fees for processing, they are not prohibitive, and many find them manageable within their budgets.
  • Finalizing the Adoption is Automatic: Lastly, some believe that if the petition is filed, the adoption is automatically granted. The court must review the petition and approve it before the adoption is finalized.

Understanding the facts about the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition can help ease the process and address any concerns you may have.

Key takeaways

Filling out the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form is a significant step in the adoption process. Below are essential takeaways that will help you navigate the process effectively.

  • Complete Sections Accurately: Ensure that Sections 1 and 2 are filled out with correct and legible information. Mistakes can delay the process.
  • Understand Fee Structure: The total fee for a vital record search includes a $25 search fee plus a $10 processing fee for certified copies. Plan your budget accordingly.
  • Use Proper Payment Methods: Only use U.S. Money Orders or certified checks when submitting payment. Avoid sending cash by mail to prevent loss.
  • Include Identification: Remember to attach a valid copy of your Photo ID when sending your request. This is a mandatory requirement.
  • Know Who Can Request Copies: Certified copies can only be issued to individuals with a direct interest, such as the registrant or a legal guardian.
  • New Birth Certificate Process: Upon adoption, a new birth certificate reflecting the adopted child’s new name will be prepared unless otherwise requested.
  • Accurate Decree Information: When completing the certification section, accurately document the decree date and court file number as these are critical for processing.
  • Maintain Communication: Address all correspondence to the State Office of Vital Records to ensure your application is processed without issues.
  • Follow Up Promptly: If you have not received your requested documents after a reasonable time, consider following up with the office for updates.

By keeping these points in mind, you can streamline the adoption process and ensure that everything goes smoothly.