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In Georgia, the journey of legally adopting an adult finds its crucial step in the completion and submission of the Certificate of Adoption, known as Form 3927 (Revised 02/2018). This form, intricately designed, serves as a bridge between the past and the future for both the adoptee and the adoptive parents. Carefully divided into sections, it captures essential details before and after the adoption, ensuring that the legal proceedings reflect the adoptive relationship accurately. The initial segments of the form are to be filled out by the petitioner, their attorney, or a representative from a child placing agency, laying down the foundational information about the adoptee’s origins and the envisioned future post-adoption. Once the court decrees the final adoption order, the responsibility shifts to the court clerk, who completes the certification section and sends it to the State Office of Vital Records in Atlanta. This process not only legalizes the adoption but triggers the amendment of the adoptee's birth record, symbolizing a new beginning. A non-refundable search fee, alongside a processing fee, accompanies this request, emphasizing the state's thoroughness in maintaining and updating vital records. It is a thoughtful, meticulous journey facilitated by this form, ensuring clarity, legality, and respect for all parties involved as they embark on a new chapter.

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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

Document Attributes

Fact Name Description
Form Identification The form for adult adoption in Georgia is labeled as "CERTIFICATE OF ADOPTION - FORM 3927 (REVISED 02/2018)".
Required Sections for Submission Sections 1 and 2 of the certificate must be completed by the petitioner, attorney for the petitioner, or the child placing agency representative and filed along with the petition or decree.
Court Clerk's Duties Upon a final adoption decree, the clerk of court is responsible for completing Section 3, affixing the court seal, signing the certification, and forwarding it to the State Office of Vital Records.
Vital Records Costs A non-refundable search fee of $25 is set by GA Code Ann., 31-10, which includes a certified copy of the birth record if found, with a processing fee for each order, and $5.00 for each additional copy requested at the same time.
Recipient Eligibility for Birth Certificate Copies As outlined in GA Code Ann., 31-10-26, certified copies of birth certificates are issued only to registrants, parents, guardians, or legal representatives, demanding a direct and tangible interest.

How to Fill Out Georgia Adult Adoption Petition

In Georgia, adult adoptions formalize an existing parent-child relationship between adults, allowing for the legal rights and responsibilities of that relationship to be recognized by the state. Upon completing the adoption process, a new birth certificate for the adopted individual may be issued, reflecting their new legal relationship. The Certificate of Adoption (Form 3927) is an essential part of this process and must be filled out accurately and submitted to the appropriate authorities. Following are the steps to correctly fill out this form.

  1. Fill out Section 1 before the adoption takes place. This includes the pre-adoption information about the adoptee.
    • Enter the state file number if known.
    • Include the adoptee's first, middle, and last names at birth.
    • Specify the adoptee's sex.
    • Provide the adoptee's date and place of birth, including city, county, and state.
    • List the mother's name at the adoptee's birth (first, middle, last).
    • Input the father's name (first, middle, last).
  2. Complete Section 2 with the information that should appear on the new birth certificate after the adoption.
    • Enter the adoptee's new first, middle, and last names.
    • Provide the current legal names and full names at birth of both adoptive parents (Mother/Parent 1, Father/Parent 2), including first, middle, and last names.
  3. Include the date of birth and place of birth for both adoptive parents (Mother/Parent 1, Father/Parent 2).
  4. Check the appropriate box to indicate whether each listed parent is an adoptive or natural parent.
  5. Enter the address of Mother/Parent 1 at the time of the adoptee's birth and the current address of the adoptive parents.
  6. Mark the checkbox if a new birth certificate in the adopted child’s new name, showing the adoptive parents' names, should not be prepared.
  7. Sign the form as the informant and include your title. If applicable, type or print the attorney's name and address.
  8. Section 3 is to be completed by the clerk of court after the adoption decree has been issued. It includes the certification information and court details.

After filling out the form, ensure to attach a valid copy of your photo ID and the appropriate fees by U.S. Money Order or certified check payable to the State Office of Vital Records. If mailing the request, include these items with the form and mail them to the State Office of Vital Records in Atlanta, Georgia. This meticulous completion and submission of the form are vital steps in fulfilling the legal requirements for adult adoption in Georgia.

More About Georgia Adult Adoption Petition

  1. Who needs to complete the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form?

    The Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form, known as Certificate of Adoption Form 3927, should be completed by the petitioner, which can be the adopting adult or their attorney, or a representative from the child-placing agency involved in the adoption process. This form is crucial for recording the adoption legally and also for the subsequent amendment of the adopted individual's birth records to reflect the adoption.

  2. What are the fees associated with filing this form?

    When submitting the Certificate of Adoption Form 3927 to the State Office of Vital Records in Georgia, there is a non-refundable vital record search fee of $25.00, which includes the issuance of a certified copy if the record is located. Moreover, there is a processing fee for each order. For example, an order that includes one processing fee and two additional copies will total $45.00. Additional copies, if purchased at the same time, cost $5.00 each. Payments must be made through a U.S. Money Order or certified check payable to the State Office of Vital Records. It is important to enclose a valid copy of your photo ID with the mailed request and to avoid sending cash by mail.

  3. How is a new birth certificate prepared after adoption?

    After the final order of adoption is decreed, a new birth certificate for the adopted child can be prepared, reflecting the adoptive parents' names as the child's new legal parents. However, if the adoptive parents or the filling party wish not to have a new birth certificate issued in the adopted child's new name that shows the adoptive parents' names, they must indicate this preference by checking the specific box provided on the form. If no such indication is given, the standard process involves the preparation of a new certificate that reflects the adoption details.

  4. Who are eligible to receive certified copies of birth certificates?

    According to GA Code Ann., 31-10-26, certified copies of birth certificates are issued strictly to registrants or applicants with a direct and tangible interest in the document. This includes the person whose birth certificate is being requested (the registrant) or others having a direct and tangible interest, such as a parent, guardian, or legal representative of the person. This policy ensures that sensitive personal information remains protected and only accessible to those with a legitimate need to obtain it.

Common mistakes

When individuals attempt to complete the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form, specifically the Certificate of Adoption (Form 3927, revised 02/2018), they sometimes encounter mistakes. These errors can delay the process, cause confusion, or result in the need to resubmit the form. It's important to approach this document with attention to detail, ensuring that all information is accurate and correctly entered. Here are ten common mistakes to avoid:

  1. Failing to complete both Section 1 and Section 2 before filing. It's crucial that the petitioner, their attorney, or the child placing agency representative fills these out as applicable.
  2. Forgetting to have the clerk of court complete the certification information in Section 3 after the final order of adoption has been decreed.
  3. Omitting the seal of the court after the clerk's signature, which is a necessary part of the certification process.
  4. Not using a legible print or typing when entering information, which can lead to misinterpretation of the data provided.
  5. Providing incorrect payment for the vital record search fee, or not including the processing fee for each order. Remember, each additional copy of the record, if ordered at the same time, incurs a separate fee.
  6. Forgetting to include a valid photo ID with the mail request, which is required to process the application.
  7. Incorrectly entering the child's birth information prior to adoption, specifically the names and birth details, which can complicate the issuance of a new birth certificate.
  8. Selecting the wrong option under the mother's and father's place of birth or failing to indicate whether they are adoptive or natural parents in the designated area. Accurate checks are essential here.
  9. Neglecting to update the current address of the adoptive parents, or providing an incomplete or incorrect address, which can result in delays in receiving correspondence or the new birth certificate.
  10. Opting out of preparing a new birth certificate without fully understanding the implications. If the box indicating “Do not prepare a new certificate in the adopted child’s new name which shows the adoptive parents' name” is checked by mistake, it could complicate future verification of the adoption.

In each step of completing the form, careful review and verification of the information provided can help prevent these common errors. Providing accurate and complete details ensures a smoother process in formalizing the adult adoption, echoing the special moment it represents in both legal and personal contexts.

Documents used along the form

Completing the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form is a substantial step towards finalizing the adoption process. However, to ensure a seamless process, several other forms and documents are typically required to support the petition. These documents are crucial for providing a comprehensive overview of the case, ensuring legal compliance, and establishing the adoptive relationship officially. Below is a list of documents often used alongside the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form.

  • Consent to Adoption Form: A document where the adult being adopted gives their formal consent to the adoption process.
  • Original Birth Certificate of the Adult Adoptee: This certificate provides proof of the adoptee's age, original name, and biological parents, which is required for the new birth certificate issuance.
  • Marital Consent Form: If the adoptee or the adoptive parent is married, this form shows the spouse's consent to the adoption.
  • Petitioner’s Financial Statement: A detailed account of the adoptive parent’s financial status to show capability of supporting the adoptee.
  • Criminal Background Check: Required for the adoptive parent to ensure the safety and welfare of the adoptee.
  • Medical Examination Report: A recent health report of the adoptee might be required to ensure no medical issues need to be addressed.
  • Home Study Documentation: Although not always mandatory for adult adoption, some cases might require a home study to ensure a suitable living environment.
  • Adoption Agreement Form: An agreement outlining the arrangements between the adoptive parent and the adult adoptee, including inheritance rights and the adoptive relationship's legal implications.
  • Final Decree of Adoption: After the petition and supporting documents are processed, the court issues this final legal document, officially completing the adoption process.

Together with the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form, these documents form a comprehensive legal package, each playing a pivotal role in substantiating the adoption process. As the process is intricate and requires precise documentation, it’s advised to review each document carefully and ensure all are properly completed and submitted to avoid undue delays or legal complications. By thoroughly preparing and organizing these documents, the adoptive parent(s) can facilitate a smoother and more efficient adoption process.

Similar forms

  • Name Change Petition: Like the Adult Adoption Petition form, a Name Change Petition requires specific personal details to legally change an individual's name on official records. Both documents necessitate approval by a court or legal authority to officially recognize the new names.

  • Birth Certificate Application: This document, similar to an adult adoption form, collects detailed personal information, including birth dates and places, to establish or modify identity records. The Adult Adoption Petition also involves creating a new birth certificate to reflect the adoption.

  • Marriage License Application: Submitting this application is a formal request for legal acknowledgment of a marriage. It's akin to an adoption petition because both establish new family bonds recognized by law and require verification of personal information.

  • Passport Application: When applying for a passport, applicants must provide comprehensive personal details—much like the Adult Adoption Petition. Both require legal documentation (e.g., birth certificates or adoption decrees) to verify identity.

  • Guardianship Appointment Form: This document establishes a legal guardianship arrangement, similar to how an Adult Adoption Petition form establishes an adoptive parent/child relationship. Both processes involve court approval and alter official records to reflect the new legal relationship.

  • Petition for Child Adoption: Despite focusing on a minor, this petition shares similarities with its adult counterpart in terms of establishing a legally recognized parental bond, requiring consent, and resulting in the issuance of a new birth certificate.

  • Divorce Decree Request Form: Like the adoption petition, this form requests a change in personal status that must be filed and approved by a court. Both documents have significant legal implications on one’s familial and legal status.

  • Wills or Estate Plans: These documents detail how an individual's assets should be distributed after their death, often including names of legal heirs, similar to how an adoption form identifies adoptive relationships. Both types of documents can significantly impact familial rights and relationships.

  • Power of Attorney Form: Assigning power of attorney grants one person the rights to act on another's behalf, somewhat echoing the rights and responsibilities adopted parents gain. While serving different purposes, both document types involve legal authorization of a relationship.

  • Immigration Sponsorship Form: Used to establish financial and legal responsibility for an immigrant, this form is similar to an adoption document in that it creates a legally recognized relationship between parties for specific purposes, involving the submission of personal details to a governmental authority.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form, it's important to follow specific guidelines to ensure the process is completed accurately and efficiently. Below are lists of what you should and shouldn't do during this process.

Things You Should Do

  1. Provide accurate information: Make sure all the details you fill in, especially in Sections 1 and 2 regarding the child’s and adoptive parents’ names, dates of birth, and places of birth, are correct and correspond to legal documents.
  2. Include the correct fees: Attach the appropriate amount for the search fee and processing fee as outlined in the form. If requesting additional copies, include the necessary extra payment.
  3. Use a certified check or money order: For mail requests, ensure your payment is in the form of a U.S. Money Order or certified check made payable to the State Office of Vital Records.
  4. Attach a valid photo ID: A copy of your photo ID must accompany your request to adhere to Georgia’s legal requirements for issuing certified copies of birth certificates.

Things You Shouldn't Do

  1. Don't leave sections blank: Fill out every section of the form that applies to your situation. Incomplete forms may result in delays or denial of the adoption petition.
  2. Don't send cash by mail: For your security and to comply with the instructions on the form, avoid sending cash as payment for the fees.
  3. Don't rush the process: Double-check all the information for accuracy and completeness. Mistakes can lead to significant delays.
  4. Don't forget to sign the form: The form requires the signature of the informant (which could be you, your attorney, or an agency representative). Ensure it is signed before submission, as unsigned forms are not processed.

Misconceptions

There are several common misconceptions about the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form that need to be clarified. Understanding the actual requirements and processes is crucial for individuals looking to navigate the adult adoption process effectively. Below are some of the most prevalent misunderstandings:

  • Adult adoption is similar to child adoption: While both processes aim to legally recognize a parent-child relationship, the consent and reasons behind adult adoptions can differ significantly from those involving minors.
  • Any adult can be adopted by another adult for any reason: Georgia law requires a legitimate, ongoing relationship between the adopter and the adoptee, typically aiming to formalize an existing parent-child relationship.
  • The adoptee’s birth certificate will not change: Contrary to this belief, upon finalization of an adult adoption, a new birth certificate can be issued, reflecting the adoptee’s new legal name and the names of the adoptive parents, unless specifically requested otherwise.
  • No birth records are available before 1919: While the form indicates that birth records from the State Office of Vital Records are available from January 1919, this does not imply records before this date don't exist; they may be held in different archives or formats.
  • The process is free of cost: The form clearly outlines various fees associated with the process, including a search fee and a processing fee for each order, including additional copies of the certificates.
  • Legal representation is not necessary: Although not always mandatory, having an attorney can facilitate navigating the legal complexities of adult adoption and ensure all documentation is correctly filed.
  • Cash payments are accepted for processing fees: As stated, payment for fees must be made via U.S. Money Order or certified check to the State Office of Vital Records; cash is not accepted, especially for mail requests.
  • Certified copies of the adoption certificate are available to anyone: Certified copies can only be issued to individuals with a direct and tangible interest, such as the adoptee, the adoptive parents, or their legal representatives.

It’s essential for individuals considering adult adoption in Georgia to have accurate information and, if needed, seek expert guidance to ensure a smooth process.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the Georgia Adult Adoption Petition form, officially known as Certificate of Adoption Form 3927 (Revised 02/2018), requires careful attention to detail to ensure the process is completed accurately and efficiently. Here are key takeaways to consider:

  • The petitioner, their attorney, or the child placing agency representative must complete Sections 1 and 2 of the form. This initial step is crucial as it provides both pre-adoption and post-adoption information necessary for the filing process and the preparation of a new birth certificate, if applicable.
  • Upon the finalization of the adoption decree, the court clerk plays a vital role in completing Section 3 of the form. This certification includes affixing the court's seal and signing off on the adoption, which officially validates the process and triggers the next steps at the State Office of Vital Records.
  • A non-refundable vital record search fee, established in accordance with GA Code Ann., 31-10 of the Official Code of Georgia, is required when submitting the form to the State Office of Vital Records. The current fee structure includes a $25.00 search fee for the first certified copy and additional copies at $5.00 each, plus a processing fee per order. Applicants need to account for these costs upfront to avoid any delays.
  • Documentation and proof of identity are essential. The form necessitates the inclusion of a valid photo ID of the requester, alongside a U.S. Money Order or certified check for the correct amount made payable to the State Office of Vital Records. It's imperative not to send cash by mail to ensure secure and verifiable transactions.

Understanding these key components can help individuals navigate the adoption petition process in Georgia more smoothly, ensuring all legal requirements are met for the adoption to be properly recorded and recognized by state authorities.

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