Article Guide
The Fiorm 3927 form, officially known as the Certificate of Adoption, serves a crucial role in the adoption process by documenting the legal transition of a child’s identity following adoption. This form is divided into several key sections, each designed to capture specific information that is essential both before and after the adoption. Initially, the petitioner, who could be the adoptive parent, their attorney, or a representative from a child-placing agency, must complete the first two sections. These sections gather details about the child prior to the adoption, including their birth information and the names of their biological parents. After the adoption is finalized, the second section captures the child's new legal name and pertinent information regarding the adoptive parents. The third section is reserved for the certification of the decree, which is completed by the clerk of court upon the finalization of the adoption. Once filled out and certified, the form must be submitted to the State Office of Vital Records in Atlanta, Georgia. This institution is responsible for issuing new birth certificates that reflect the child’s adopted name and the names of the adoptive parents. It's important to note that specific fees apply when submitting the form, which cover search and processing costs, along with the issuance of certified copies of vital records. Clear guidance is provided to ensure that all applicants understand the requirements and procedures, emphasizing the importance of accuracy and completeness in each submission.
Form Sample
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
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1 Processing Fee |
$10.00 |
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1 Search Fee |
$25.00 |
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+2 Additional Copies |
$10.00 |
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$45.00 |
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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.,
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 |
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SEX OF CHILD |
DATE OF BIRTH (MONTH, DAY, & YEAR) |
PLACE OF BIRTH (CITY, COUNTY, & STATE) |
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MOTHERS NAME AT BIRTH (FIRST, MIDDLE, LAST) |
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FATHERS NAME (FIRST, MIDDLE, & LAST) |
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Section 2: AFTER ADOPTION (INFORMATION FOR NEW BIRTH CERTIFICATE)
FIRST NAME OF CHILD |
MIDDLE NAME OF CHILD |
LAST NAME OF CHILD |
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CURRENT LEGAL NAME: FIRST NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT 1 |
MIDDLE NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT 1 |
LAST NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT 1 |
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FULL NAME AT BIRTH: FIRST NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT 1 |
MIDDLE NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT/ 1 |
LAST NAME OF MOTHER/PARENT 1 |
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CURRENT LEGAL NAME: FIRST NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2 |
MIDDLE NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2 |
LAST NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2 |
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FULL NAME AT BIRTH: FIRST NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2 |
MIDDLE NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2 |
LAST NAME OF FATHER/PARENT 2 |
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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
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CERTIFICATE OF ADOPTION FORM 3927 (REVISED 02/2018) |
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MOTHER/PARENT 1 DATE OF BIRTH (MONTH, DAY, YEAR) |
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FATHER/PARENT 2 DATE OF BIRTH (MONTH, DAY, YEAR) |
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MOTHER/PARENT 1 PLACE OF BIRTH (CITY, COUNTY, STATE,OR COUNTRY) |
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FATHER/PARENT 2 PLACE OF BIRTH (CITY, COUNTY, STATE, OR COUNTRY) |
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MOTHER/PARENT 1 (PLEASE CHECK ONE) |
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FATHER/PARENT 2 (PLEASE CHECK ONE) |
Adoptive Parent |
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Adoptive Parent |
Natural Parent |
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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 |
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TYPE OR PRINT THE ATTORNEY’S NAME |
TYPE OR PRINT THE ATTORNEY’S ADDRESS (STREET, CITY, STATE, & ZIP CODE) |
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Section 3: CERTIFICATION INFORMATION
DATE DECREE WAS ENTERED (MONTH, DAY, & YEAR) |
COURT FILE NUMBER |
COUNTY OF COURT |
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PLACE OF BIRTH AS INDICATED ON THE FINAL DECREE OF ADOPTION (CITY, COUNTY) |
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SIGNATURE OF CLERK
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I hereby certify that the final decree of adoption concerning the persons named above was entered in this court. Please place seal over signature.
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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 Specifications
| Fact Name | Description |
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| Form Purpose | This form is used as a Certificate of Adoption in Georgia. |
| Governing Law | The form complies with GA Code Ann., 31-10 of the Official Code of Georgia. |
| Completion Responsibility | Sections 1 and 2 are to be completed by the petitioner, attorney, or child placing agency representative. |
| Filing Location | Completed forms should be filed with the State Office of Vital Records in Atlanta, Georgia. |
| Fees | A non-refundable search fee of $25.00 is required, plus additional processing fees for copies. |
| Identification Requirement | A valid photo ID must accompany requests sent by mail. |
| Adoption Certification | Final decree certification is completed by the court clerk and includes the court seal. |
Steps to Filling Out Fiorm 3927
Completing Form 3927 is essential for finalizing the adoption process and preparing the new birth certificate for the adopted child. The following steps outline how to accurately fill out this form. Ensure that all information is printed or typed legibly and correctly to avoid any delays.
- Begin with Section 1: Before Adoption. Fill in the following:
- State file number
- First, middle, and last name of the child at birth
- Sex of the child
- Date of birth (month, day, year)
- Place of birth (city, county, and state)
- Mother’s name at birth (first, middle, last)
- Father’s name (first, middle, last)
- Proceed to Section 2: After Adoption. Provide the new information for the child's birth certificate by completing:
- First, middle, and last name of the child after adoption
- The current legal name of Mother/Parent 1 (first, middle, last)
- Mother/Parent 1’s full name at birth (first, middle, last)
- The current legal name of Father/Parent 2 (first, middle, last)
- Father/Parent 2’s full name at birth (first, middle, last)
- Mother/Parent 1’s date of birth (month, day, year)
- Father/Parent 2’s date of birth (month, day, year)
- Mother/Parent 1’s place of birth (city, county, state, or country)
- Father/Parent 2’s place of birth (city, county, state, or country)
- Check appropriate box for Mother/Parent 1 and Father/Parent 2 (Adoptive Parent or 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)
- If applicable, check the box indicating whether to prepare a new birth certificate or not.
- Sign and date the form in the informant section, providing any necessary title and the attorney's name and address.
- In Section 3: Certification Information, the clerk of court will complete:
- 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)
- Clerk's signature and the court seal
Once the form is completed, it should be filed with the petition or decree of adoption. Ensure that it is sent to the State Office of Vital Records along with the appropriate fees and a valid photo ID. This process concludes with the issuance of a new birth certificate reflecting the adoptive parents' names.
More About Fiorm 3927
What is Form 3927?
Form 3927, also known as the Certificate of Adoption, is a document used in the adoption process in Georgia. It serves to record the details of the adoption and is submitted to the State Office of Vital Records. This form is essential for updating the child's birth certificate to reflect their new identity post-adoption.
Who is responsible for completing Form 3927?
Sections 1 and 2 of the form must be completed by the petitioner, an attorney representing the petitioner, or a child placing agency representative. Each party plays a role in ensuring that the necessary information is accurately provided, as it is vital for the adoption process.
What information is required before and after the adoption?
Before the adoption, Section 1 requests details such as the child’s name at birth, date of birth, place of birth, and the names of the birth parents. After the adoption, Section 2 asks for the child's new legal name, and the names of the adoptive parents, along with additional identifying information for a new birth certificate.
Where should Form 3927 be sent after completion?
After the court has issued a final decree of adoption, Form 3927 must be sent to the State Office of Vital Records located at 1680 Phoenix Blvd, Suite 100, Atlanta, GA 30349. This ensures the child's new information is recorded in the state's vital records.
Are there any fees associated with submitting Form 3927?
Yes, there are fees involved. A non-refundable vital record search fee of $25.00 applies when the request is submitted, along with processing fees for each order. If additional copies of the record are needed, they are charged at $5.00 each. For example, the total for one search fee, one processing fee, and two additional copies would be $45.00.
Do I need to include identification when submitting the form?
Yes, a valid copy of your Photo ID must accompany your request if you are mailing Form 3927. This serves as a verification of identity and is required to process the request. Cash should not be sent through the mail.
Who can request a certified copy of the adoption record?
According to Georgia law, only individuals with a direct and tangible interest may request certified copies of the adoption records. This includes the registrants (the child), parents, guardians, or legal representatives.
What happens if the adoptive parents do not want a new birth certificate?
If the adoptive parents do not wish to prepare a new birth certificate that shows their names, they must check the specified box on Form 3927. In that case, the records will not reflect the adoptive parents' information.
What information does the clerk of court provide on the form?
The clerk of court is responsible for completing Section 3, which includes the certification information such as the date the decree was entered, court file number, and place of birth as indicated on the final decree of adoption. The clerk will also sign and affix the court seal to validate the form.
How can I contact the State Office of Vital Records for questions about Form 3927?
You can reach the State Office of Vital Records by calling 404.679.4702. They can provide further information and clarification regarding the adoption process and the completion of Form 3927.
Common mistakes
Completing the Form 3927 can be a straightforward process, but many make common mistakes that could delay their application. Here is a list of six critical errors to avoid:
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Inaccurate Information:
Providing incorrect names, dates, or identification can lead to significant issues. Double-check all entries for accuracy.
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Illegible Handwriting:
Submissions that are hard to read may result in misunderstandings. Always print or type information clearly.
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Missing Required Fees:
Failure to include the correct feessuch as the search and processing fees, may cause your application to be returned.
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Not Including a Photo ID:
A valid photo ID is mandatory for processing the form. Ensure you attach it when submitting your request.
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Incorrect Signatures:
Signing in a different name or using an unofficial signature can invalidate the document. Consistency is crucial.
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Omitting Essential Sections:
Each section must be filled out completely. Skipping any part of the form can result in delays.
Making these common mistakes can hinder the adoption process. Ensuring accuracy and completeness will facilitate a smoother experience.
Documents used along the form
The Form 3927, known as the Certificate of Adoption, plays a crucial role in the adoption process. In addition to this form, several other documents and forms are often used to complete the necessary legal proceedings effectively. Below is a list and brief description of four such documents commonly associated with the adoption process.
- Petition for Adoption: This document initiates the legal process of adoption. It outlines the intent of the adopting parents and establishes their right to adopt. This form includes details such as the child's background and the circumstances surrounding the adoption.
- Background Check Authorization Form: Required for prospective adoptive parents, this form authorizes background checks, which are standard practice during the adoption process. This step ensures that the adopting parents meet the necessary legal and safety standards.
- Home Study Report: Completed by a licensed social worker, the home study report evaluates the adopting family's living situation and their preparedness for adopting a child. This detailed report assesses the family's stability, financial status, and readiness to provide for a child’s needs.
- Final Adoption Decree: Once the court has approved the adoption, this legal document finalizes the adoption process. It formally recognizes the legal relationship between the child and the adoptive parents, allowing for the issuance of a new birth certificate reflecting the child’s new legal name.
Understanding these documents is essential for anyone involved in the adoption process. Each plays an important role in ensuring that the adoption is legal, safe, and beneficial for the child and the adopting family.
Similar forms
The Certificate of Live Birth serves a similar purpose as the Form 3927 by documenting an individual's birth and providing official information for identity verification. Like the adoption certificate, it requires precise details, such as the child's name, date of birth, and parents’ names. After a birth occurs, parents or guardians typically fill out this form, and it is filed with a designated state office. The completion of the Certificate of Live Birth results in an official record that can be necessary for obtaining important documents later in life.
The Certificate of Marriage can be compared to the Form 3927 in terms of its function as an official document that records and certifies a significant life event. It requires information such as the names of the individuals getting married, their birthdates, and the date and location of the marriage. This document is vital for legal recognition of the union and may come into play in various legal and administrative processes, similar to how the adoption certificate is integral to confirming the legal status of an adopted child.
The Paternity Acknowledgment Form is another document akin to the Form 3927, as it establishes the legal relationship between a father and a child. This form must be signed by both parents, affirming that they acknowledge the father's role in the child's life. It is particularly relevant in circumstances where parents are not married at the time of the child's birth. This document allows legal rights and responsibilities to be established, much like the acknowledgment of adoption through Form 3927.
The Death Certificate is relevant in the same context of vital records as the Form 3927. It provides vital information about a person's death, such as the individual's name, date of birth, and date of death. Like the adoption certificate, this document is often required for various administrative purposes, including settling estates or claims. Both documents serve to formally recognize important life milestones, albeit one focuses on the beginning of life while the other addresses its conclusion.
The Certificate of Divorce shares some similarities with the Form 3927 in that it serves as an official record of a significant life change. This document provides details about the parties involved and the date of the divorce, and it is often required for issues such as asset division or child custody arrangements. Just as an adoption certificate legally formalizes a new family situation, the divorce certificate provides clarity and resolution to a previous legal union.
The Custody Order is another document comparable to Form 3927, as it determines the legal arrangement for the care and guardianship of a child. This order specifies the rights and responsibilities of custodial and non-custodial parents. While the purpose differs slightly from that of the adoption certificate, both documents are essential in guiding the legal framework surrounding family relationships and ensuring the well-being of a child.
Lastly, the Social Security Card serves as an essential document in identity verification, paralleling the adoption certificate in its function. Issued by the Social Security Administration, it requires information such as the individual's name and date of birth. This card is necessary for accessing government benefits and filing taxes. Just as the adoption certificate secures one’s legal identity following an adoption, the Social Security Card plays a crucial role in confirming an individual's status in society.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Form 3927, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure the process goes smoothly. Below is a list of dos and don’ts that may be helpful.
- Do complete sections 1 and 2 accurately and thoroughly. Ensure all information is current and correct.
- Do print or type all information legibly. Clear handwriting can prevent misunderstandings and delays.
- Do include a valid copy of your photo ID with your submission. This helps verify your identity.
- Do check the submission address thoroughly to avoid misdirected correspondence.
- Do submit the correct payment method. The fees must be sent via U.S. Money Order or certified check.
- Don't send cash through the mail. Cash is not a safe or acceptable form of payment.
- Don't neglect to read the instructions carefully. Omissions or errors could delay the processing of your request.
By following these guidelines, one can facilitate a smoother experience when completing the Certificate of Adoption Form 3927. It is essential to approach this process with care and consideration for all parties involved.
Misconceptions
Understanding the Form 3927, or Certificate of Adoption, is essential for anyone involved in the adoption process. Unfortunately, several misconceptions may lead to confusion. Below are seven common misconceptions about this form, along with clarifications for each.
- Only a lawyer can file Form 3927. While it is often completed by an attorney, it can also be filled out by the petitioner or a representative from a child placing agency.
- The form does not need to be filed with the adoption petition. In fact, sections 1 and 2 of the form must be submitted along with the petition or decree to ensure proper processing.
- The court clerk does not need to sign the form. The certification section must be signed by the clerk, who confirms that the final order of adoption has been issued.
- You must provide cash when sending the form by mail. It is important to use a U.S. Money Order or certified check and to never send cash through the mail.
- The form is only for in-state adoptions. While it is typically used within Georgia, individuals from other states may also use this form if they are adopting a child in Georgia.
- A new birth certificate will automatically be issued. A new birth certificate will only be prepared if the specified box on the form is checked; otherwise, the original name will remain.
- Identification is not necessary for submission. A valid photo ID must accompany the completed form when submitted to the State Office of Vital Records.
Being informed about these misconceptions fosters a smoother adoption process. Each step in completing and submitting Form 3927 is crucial for ensuring that the adoption is legally recognized. Understanding these points can help relieve some of the stress that comes with this important journey.
Key takeaways
When navigating the process of filling out and using Form 3927, it is important to understand the following key points.
- The form is intended for adoption certificates and must be completed by the petitioner, attorney, or child placement agency representative.
- Sections 1 and 2 capture crucial details about the child before and after adoption, including names, dates of birth, and the identities of the parents.
- After the adoption is finalized, the clerk of court completes section 3, which includes the court’s seal and necessary certification.
- A $25.00 search fee is required when requesting a birth certificate, and an additional $5.00 is charged for each extra copy.
- It is essential to attach a valid photo ID and avoid sending cash when mailing the request to the State Office of Vital Records.
- Certified copies of birth certificates can only be issued to individuals with a direct and tangible interest, such as the child, parents, or legal representatives.
Filling out this form accurately is vital for ensuring the integrity of adoption records and securing legal documentation for the adopted child.