One of the new requirements for all adoption Petitioners in Georgia is to submit to a criminal background check. For many types of adoptions, this is a new requirement that is contained in the new adoption code that went into effect on September 1, 2018. I have created a workflow for getting this done efficiently by working closely with the Whitfield and Murray County Court staff.

Our Judges are taking this requirement very seriously. If you are concerned about what may show on your criminal history, please be sure to tell your attorney about the charges so that he or she can advise you about the ramifications the charges may have on an adoption. It should be noted that just because you have a criminal history does not necessarily mean you cannot adopt. The age of the charges and the severity of the charges are taken into consideration.

If you have any questions about this new requirement, please do not hesitate

to call me to discuss.