Adoption Attorney in Southwest Georgia
Adoption is more than a legal transaction — it’s a permanent, life-changing decision. At Shingler Law, we guide families across Southwest Georgia through every step of the adoption process with clarity, compassion, and courtroom experience. Whether you’re adopting a child, finalizing a stepparent adoption, or completing an adult adoption, we help you do it the right way.Types of Adoptions We Handle
We represent clients in all major adoption categories, including:- Stepparent Adoptions
- Relative and Grandparent Adoptions
- Third-Party and Private Adoptions
- Agency Adoptions
- Foster Care Adoptions
- LGBTQ+ Family Adoptions
- Adult Adoptions
- International Adoptions
Probate Court in All 11 Counties
Adoptions in Georgia are typically finalized in Probate Court. Our firm regularly appears in courts across all 11 counties we serve, and we understand the paperwork, hearing procedures, and expectations of each judge and clerk. Whether your adoption is uncontested or more complex, we file every petition properly and appear with you in court when it matters most.Consent and Parental Rights Termination
In many adoptions, consent from one or both biological parents is required. In other cases, the court may allow a petition to move forward without consent due to abandonment, unfitness, or prior termination of rights. We guide families through this delicate process with both strategic insight and sensitivity.Why Legal Representation Matters in Adoption
Missed forms, unclear consent, or delays in filing can derail an adoption — sometimes permanently. We ensure your adoption is legally sound, efficiently processed, and fully enforceable.“Adoption deserves more than paperwork — it deserves to be protected for life.” — Kendall “Micaelah” Gale
Supporting All Families
We proudly assist single parents, blended families, and foster families and LGBTQ+ parents. Every adoption is different — and every family deserves the same level of legal care and respect.Serving Clients Across Southwest Georgia
We provide adoption services in all 11 counties we serve, including:- Seminole County – Finalizing adoptions in Donalsonville and surrounding areas. See Seminole County Legal Services. ›
- Early County – Representing families in Blakely, Jakin, and Damascus. Explore Early County Legal Services ›
- Decatur County – Handling adoption petitions in Bainbridge and Climax. Decatur County Services ›
- Grady County – Serving Cairo, Whigham, and nearby communities. Grady County Legal Page ›
- Miller County – Finalizing adoption cases in Colquitt and Boykin. Miller County Overview ›
- Mitchell County – Probate Court adoption filings in Camilla and Pelham. Mitchell County Legal Info ›
- Terrell County – Representing adoptive families in Dawson and beyond. Terrell County Services ›
- Randolph County – Helping families in Cuthbert and Shellman navigate the process. Randolph County Lawyer Page ›
- Clay County – Handling rural adoptions in Fort Gaines and Bluffton. Clay County Legal Services ›
- Quitman County – Representing clients in Georgetown and surrounding areas. Explore Quitman County Legal Services ›
- Baker County – Working with families in Newton and throughout Baker County. Baker County Legal Info ›
Related Legal Services
Start the Process With Confidence
If you’re considering adoption in Georgia, contact Shingler Law to get the clarity and legal support you need. We’ll walk you through the process, handle every filing, and appear in court with you when it matters most. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. To discuss your situation, contact an attorney licensed to practice in Georgia.practice areas
Focused Legal Solutions
DUI DEFENSE
Charged with DUI? We protect your license, record, and future with experienced defense.
PERSONAL INJURY
Hurt in an accident? We pursue full compensation, and you don’t pay unless we win.
FELONY CASES
Accused of a felony? We fight serious charges with precision, urgency, and a strong defense strategy.
MISDEMEANOR & TRAFFIC
Cited or charged? We handle traffic and misdemeanor cases to protect your record.
WILLS & PROBATE
Planning ahead? We draft clear wills and guide families through probate with care and efficiency.
CIVIL / TORT
In a dispute or claim? We resolve civil matters with clarity, confidence, and skilled legal support.
ADOPTION
We guide families through adoption with clarity and care, ensuring every step is secure.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Answers to the legal questions we hear most.
What types of adoptions does Shingler Law handle?
We handle stepparent, relative, private, agency, foster care, adult, LGBTQ+, third-party, and international adoptions across Southwest Georgia.
Which court handles adoption in Georgia?
Most adoptions are finalized in Probate Court, though some contested or agency-related adoptions may involve Juvenile or Superior Court. We handle filings across all 11 counties.
How long does the adoption process take?
It depends on the type of adoption. Some uncontested cases (like adult or stepparent adoptions) may finalize in a few months. Agency and international adoptions can take longer.
Do both biological parents have to consent?
Not always. In some cases, one parent’s rights may have already been terminated or can be challenged due to abandonment or other legal grounds.
Can LGBTQ+ individuals or couples adopt in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia law allows LGBTQ+ individuals and couples to adopt. We guide families through the process with full legal support and sensitivity.
What if the child is in foster care or with DFCS?
We represent foster parents seeking to adopt and help navigate the state’s approval process and post-placement requirements.
Do I need an attorney for a private adoption?
Absolutely. Private adoptions involve legal risks and paperwork that must be handled carefully to avoid future challenges. We draft and review all documents to protect everyone involved.
START THE CONVERSATION
We’re here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.