Legal Question in Family Law in Georgia

step-parent adoption

My husband would like to adopt my son. The real father took a paternity test and it was confirmed but his name does not appear on the birth certificate. He has not made contact in 2 years. Do we need to relinquish his parental rights for my husband to adopt? We are currently stationed overseas.


Asked on 9/26/02, 9:28 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Pearlie Bush

Re: step-parent adoption

This answer depends on a host of things. First of all, if the child was born in Georgia out of wedlock, the father does not establish any rights to the child until he legitimates the child. Secondly, if after legitiamtion, the father has abandoned the child and his whereabouts are unknown, his rights can be terminated by the courts or he could be notified by publication. Please consult a local attorney because this can be a very complicated process. Good Luck.

Read more
Answered on 9/27/02, 6:32 am
Charles W. Field Charles W. Field, Attorney at Law

Re: step-parent adoption

Relinquishment of parental rights is part of the adoption process, generally. Because this must be handled correctly, you should contact a local attorney.

Read more
Answered on 9/26/02, 10:43 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Georgia