Cumming Adoption Attorney

Pursuing Formal Adoption and Name Change

Perhaps the most common form of adoption is by a step-parent.  If you have married someone who already has children and successfully assume the role as the children's parent it can be a joyful experience to adopt them formally.  Generally this should not be a problem unless the other biological parent is not in agreement.  Sometimes they are not even present or are unable to maintain their relationship with their child.  If you desire to adopt your stepchild, we can help you present your case to the court to help you gain full legal rights as a parent.  Call our offices and speak to a Cumming divorce lawyer at Van Sant Law, LLC about your situation and arrange a free consultation.

Adoption of a child is also possible for any couple or individual who wishes to raise a child that is not their own.  It is also an action grandparents will sometime find necessary if their grandchildren cannot be adequately cared for by their parents due to illness or addiction.  Adoption of a child by a close relative is relatively easy course to pursue as long as it can be shown that the natural parents are unfit or unable.  Anyone who chooses to adopt a child through an agency should still consult with a family law attorney to protect their rights and not be surprised by some last minute demand or "changes of heart."

Name Change and Adoption Lawyer in Cumming

We also help those who wish to change their child's last name from their former name to their own.  This can happen after a divorce or in the case of a step-parent adoption.  It is often a simple matter but occasionally may run into an ex-spouse or other party contesting such a petition.  A skilled family law lawyer can help you get the agreements necessary to get the court's approval on such a name change.  If you have any questions regarding adoption or name change petitions call our offices and we can give you the answers.

Contact a Cumming adoption attorney for help in pursuing an adoption, step-parent adoption or to file a name change petition.