Licensed for 40 years

State GA

Acquired 1983

Status
Active Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Birney O'Brian Bull

Adoption Attorney at Savannah, GA

About
Contact
Reviews
Cost
Resume

So Thankful to have found Mr. Bull

After a couple of miscarriages my husband and I decided we wanted to adopt a baby, and that my husband was also going to do "step-parent" adoption of my children from a previous marriage. After research and talking with a couple of attorney's Mr. Bull came highly recommended. I called and set up a meeting with Mr. Bull, going in and talking with him Mr. Bull agreed to do help us with the adoption process as well as the "step-parent" adoption. MR. Bull was very knowledgeable and a lot less cocky as other attorney's we had met with. What a relief that was for us. Even though my husband has a legal plan through work and Mr. Bull was not apart of the legal plan, we felt alot more confident with Mr. Bull so That day we put down a small retainer fee and left excited that we would be able to add 1 more to our family. After a couple of months we found out that we were expecting a child of our own and placed the adoption on hold. And since my husband had a legal plan through work we decided to have one of the attorney's through his legal plan to process the "step-parent" adoption. The attorney recommended to us through the legal plan began the process of step parent adoption, everything seemed fine and since we knew so little on the step parent adoption process we would soon find out that was FAR from the truth. Our court date comes, we drive 6 hrs for the court date to finalize the step parent adoption, the kids were excited the day had finally came. Upon meeting with the Judge we found out that the attorney recommended to us was LOST when it came to not just step parent adoption but any type of adoption. Our joyous day soon began turning to a day of frustration and irritation, resistance to lash out at the attorney. Several steps and mandatory adoption forms was not completed and the attorney had no clue what any of them was. Thankfully I was able to contact Mr. Bull who willingly and graciously helped me with the forms and information that was needed even though he was not our attorney for this case. I am very thankful that Mr. Bull helped save my sanity and our joyous day! I am looking forward to hopefully working with him on adopting "our forever child" in the very near future. If you are looking for an attorney for adoption, I don't think there is a better attorney out there that you could find to help you through the process. If you are considering placing your child for adoption please talk to Mr. Bull and let him help you make the decision and find the "forever parents" for your child.

Fabulous Adoption Lawyer

My family's experience with this lawyer and his staff was amazing. I was not the easiest client in that I had a ton of questions and was constantly in contact, but even with that being said I was always treated with courtesy and respect. They were more than just an adoption lawyer to me because they also provided emotional support for something that can be emotionally draining. Birney O'Brian Bull is an incredibly knowledgable and competent lawyer and any and all questions that I had were answered very promptly and in a professional matter. I will close with if you are looking to adopt I would definitely give them a call you will be happy that you did.

About Birney

Learn Birney’s areas of practice.

Practice area

Adoption

100%

Practice limited to adoption since 1/2003. "400 cases" estimates adoptions only. (The AVVO rating seems to value things that aren't so relevant to our practice, like helping with local Bar activities; valuable stuff, yes, but we don't view those things as much of a benefit to adoption!)
... Read more
40 years, 400 cases

HELPING PEOPLE MULTIPLY LOVE IN THEIR FAMILIES.

Adoption: The Opportunity of a Lifetime --- The Choice You Can Live With!

The AVVO Rating ...

This number is thought by many lawyers to be helpful in some cases, and wacky and misleading in others. For example, in just a few months --- and for no apparent reason --- mine varied wildly over a range of more than 2 whole points, even reaching 10.0 for a time. No complaints on the 10.0 . . . ;-) . . . , but honestly, it seems to value things that aren't so relevant to our practice --- like helping with local Bar activities; valuable stuff, yes, ... but beneficial to adoption? We don't think so. But we DO have several positive endorsements by other lawyers and many positive Client Reviews!

Personal Info

Mr. Bull served as President of the Board of Savannah Care Center, a crisis pregnancy center, from 1994 to 2009. He was on the Board for two years prior to that, and was again a regular member of the Board in 2010 and 2011. This, and his adoption work, has been very fulfilling.

His wife is a Professor of Fibers at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), and he has two home-grown daughters, one who recently graduated from SCAD, and a special needs daughter who attends Islands High School.

He enjoys running, and music (playing and listening), and used to play golf and tennis when time was easier to find.

Check his office Facebook page at ?ref=ts, and his personal profile is .

Awards

Client's Choice

2012 2010

Top Contributor

2012

Photos and videos

Contact Birney

Adoption Law Office of Birney O'Brian Bull

(912) 417-3249 Office

1903 Abercorn Street

Savannah, GA, 31401

www.AdoptNeed.com

Message Get Directions

Birney O'Brian Bull

P. O. Box 9811

Savannah, GA, 31412-0011

Message Get Directions

Hide locations

Reviews

Write A Review

5.0 / 5.0

32 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.

Posted by anonymous | February 3, 2016

So Thankful to have found Mr. Bull

Read less

Posted by Michelle | October 28, 2010

Fabulous Adoption Lawyer

Read less

Posted by Lauri | March 5, 2020

Consulting Interview

I've never had an attorney call me back personally. Not his Secretary not his paralegal, but the lawyer himself. He wasn't in a rush. He let me explain our situation and gave sound advice without wanting a penny. He explained the pros and cons of our case, without giving any false hope, as well as gave me an upfront cost. You can tell this man wants nothing more to help family and children be together. Thank you so much for your help today.

Read less

Posted by Brent | September 29, 2017

Fantastic service

I’m not sure I can say enough nice things about Birney Bull. Our adoptive son was born just before Christmas 2016. We live in KY, the adoption agency was in OH, and he was born in GA. As you can guess, getting coordination from three state governments during the holidays was not an easy process. After several weeks away from home (we weren’t legally allowed to leave GA until all the legal paperwork was completed), we contacted Birney to find some help in getting the process expedited and finally taking our little man home. Our first meeting was after regular office hours. He came in to work late just to help us. If Birney was a doctor, I would praise his bedside manner. He was accommodating, knowledgeable, and kept our spirits up after having to be away from home for nearly a month. Within a week of our first meeting, all of the paperwork and red tape had been taken care of and we were able to bring our boy home to meet his family. We weren’t just random clients to Birney. The personal attention, good nature, and even the humor we shared eased the burden of this long, drawn out process. If you’re anywhere in GA and are looking for adoption assistance, call this office immediately. You will realize that Birney is not just practicing adoption law as a career; it’s his passion. Birney O’Brian Bull, you are a true gentleman. God bless you. Sincerely, Brent, Kim, and Luke.

Read less

Posted by Regina | August 27, 2017

Blessed

Mr. Bull was awesome, not only to us but our birth mother as well! He was so patient and caring. I had numerous questions and he didn't mind answering everyone. He was a God send to us! Our beautiful baby was definitely born from our heart! Our daughter is 11yrs old now and she is our whole heart. Thank you Mr. Bull for you patience, love, and kindness! We love and appreciate you!!!

Read less

Posted by anonymous | October 30, 2010

Adoption of twin boys

My husband and I wanted to adopt our twin grandsons whom we had custody of. They were born out of state, and neither birth parent could be found. Mr. Bull and his staff did an outstanding job. We were thoroughly informed up front about the process as well as possible problems or hurdles that we might encounter. As you can imagine there was a plethora of paperwork required, interaction with out of state agencies as well as the in state agencies. The knowledge and professionalism of Mr. Birney was exceptional. We feel very blessed to have been fortunate enough to have selected him as our lawyer. He insured that all required or possiblely required documentation was in place and complete. Everything required was in place and we had our day in court! The end result was just as the boys and we had hoped for. I strongly recommend Mr. Birney to anyone looking to adopt a child.

Read less

Posted by anonymous | May 29, 2010

Mr Bull was great!!

Mr. Bull is an excellent lawyer for adoption. He gave us sound advice and went the extra mile to help us adopt our son. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking adoption services.

Posted by Edward and Keisha M. | May 18, 2010

Mr. Bull impact is everlasting

What can I say about a man that took me an dmy family step by step in the adoption of my oldest daughter. Mr. Bull took every oppurtunity to ensure that every step throughout the whole proccess was explain to the very minute detail. He first and far most concern was that me and my wife was completely informed and understood each document was explained, read and understood before signing. His professionalism was awesome, always sought to that to see that our time was his time and vice versa. Mr. bull and his team even after, I means years after our adoption still render the help needed in obtaining paperwork that was lost, destroyed or misplaced. When him and his team say "Call us if you need any assistance afterwards" those words they truly mean it to the heart. Mr. Bull and your team, I thank you for your kindness, patience, and care.

Read less

Posted by Tracy | April 6, 2010

Birney Bull is AWESOME!!!!!

I cannot say enough good things about Birney. He handled all three of my adoptions & I just knew we were in good hands from the moment we started working with him. My first adoption ran into a small glitch(paternal side) & Birney took time, patience, & effort to make sure that everything worked out for us & it did. I am constantly telling anyone who is considering adoption, or not, about him. Birney is so sweet, friendly, honest, down to earth, and so on and so forth. I have pleasant memories of my adoption experiences and after thanks to Birney. I could go on, but I'll stop here. He's HIGHLY recommended!

Read less

Posted by Tim | April 3, 2010

Birney is anything but a stereotypical Lawyer.

I would never have thought that working with a Lawyer would be something I would enjoy. However my wife and I truly enjoyed the time we spent with Birney while we where going through the process of adopting our son. Adoption is a long often stressful process, but Birney's expertise in the field and easygoing demeanor made the the process easier and smoother. I would highly recommend him to anyone.

Read less

Posted by Greg | April 1, 2010

Birney Bull review

Excellent attorney who exhibits a personal approach to his clients. We would highly recommend Birney. He made the adoption process very simple for us and was personally involved in all aspects of this process.

Posted by Shannon | March 19, 2010

Incredibly responsive and helpful throughout adoption process!

I would highly recommend Birney Bull. He has a great work ethic and was able to jump right in and help us when we called him on VERY short notice for an interstate adoption (adoption across state lines). We didn't know everything that would be required for an interstate adoption but with one phone call to him, he took care of everything and made the process incredibly smooth and quick so we could just focus on enjoying the meeting of our new baby boy at the hospital. He remained very responsive through the process - a process that became tediously long and drawn out due to factors outside of his control. He kept us well informed and did all the leg work possible to ensure we were well taken care of and that all the details were accounted for to the letter of the law. He is a man of integrity and trustworthy character and I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone needing an attorney. Also, we compared rates when we were first looking into an attorney and he was BY FAR the most reasonably priced. It was an incredible blessing for my husband and I to get that kind of service for that kind of price. My baby boy just turned 13 months and we couldn't be happier to call him ours:) We are thankful to Birney for helping to make it all possible.

Read less

Posted by Bill | March 17, 2010

Great adoption assistance.

Mr. Bull did a great job of walking me through the process and keeping me informed of the actions of all the other players.

Posted by John | March 16, 2010

Trustworthy, knowledgable and a truly compassionate attorney (Now THAT'S an oxymoron!)

Four years ago my wife and I wanted to adopt our nephew whom we had had custody of a few years. We approached Birney about the adoption because out of all the attorneys we had went to, he was the only one whom, we felt, truly cared. It wasn't just his care for us and our needs, but his true commitment to the children of these cases and his pro life activism that really showed through his demeanor. He charged an extremely fair rate and did every once of work required for the filing and handling of this case. Unfortunately other complications arose with custody and we couldn't complete the process before we had to move out of Georgia. To my amazement, Birney in his fair act refunded for part of the adoption because it wasn't completed. His fairness and honest approach to his clients and his genial heartfelt treatment of us has earned him the highest of praise. If you want results from someone who knows the system and genuinely cares for his clients the Birney Bull's your man.

Read less

Posted by Dana | March 16, 2010

Highly recommend Birney Bull

Birney Bull helped us to adopt our precious baby boy going on 3 years ago. He was very knowledgeable about the adoption procedure and made things very easy for us. He was always quick to respond to emails or answer our questions. He has compassion for children and families, and it is obvious that he finds true joy in uniting and growing families. We will always be grateful for him in helping us obtain our new addition!

Read less

Posted by Ginger | March 15, 2010

The best adoption lawyer in town

Mr. Bull is an excellent lawyer for adoption. He gave us sound advice and went the extra mile to help us adopt our son. We had special circumstances involving the details of the adoption and Mr. Bull worked to help us with all the problems we encountered. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking adoption services.

Posted by Charles B. | March 15, 2010

I have highly recommended Birney Bull to others.

When we were looking for an attorney to handle our adoption, Birney Bull was recommended to us. After meeting with him, we knew we had the right attorney. We have since refered him to others. Birney sincerely cares and is passionate about children, his clients and his practice. Our only regret is we didn't thank him enough. Thanks Birney!

Read less

Posted by Megan | March 14, 2010

Wonderful to work with

Birney Bull is a very knowledgeable, passionate and friendly adoption attorney. Our entire family enjoyed working with during the adoption process.

Posted by Jodie | March 14, 2010

Caring Adoption Attorney

Birney was awesome to work with, and took personal time to work with us in an emergency situation. When the Birth Mother went into labor, Birney was out of town for his family, but he took that time to work with us and give us the much needed support and advice we needed. He is very caring and understanding and would highly recommend him to work with.

Read less

Posted by Shelley (Nikki) | March 14, 2010

Great adoption process, easy and painless!!!

I used Mr. Bull for the adoption process of my son by his stepfather. I virtually just had to sit back and relax and Birney did practically everything and kept me informed every step of the way. Also my aunt was unable to have children of her own and she used Birney and has a great family with 3 children that were brother and sisters that are now my cousins and I love them very much. If you want great personal service with a trustworthy and intelligent attorney I recommend Birney Bull 100%.

Read less

View all reviews

View less reviews

Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.3 (Superb)

Work Experience

Attorney
Adoption Law Office of Birney O'Brian Bull
2003 - Present

Senior Staff Attorney
Chatham Superior Court
1997 - 2003

Associate
James E. Starnes, Esq.
1996 - 1997

Attorney
Birney O'Brian Bull, Esq.
1991 - 1996

Partner
Ranitz, Mahoney, Forbes & Coolidge, P.C.
1985 - 1991

Law Clerk
State Court of Chatham County
1983 - 1985

View all work experience

Education

University of Georgia
JD - Juris Doctor
1983

Wake Forest University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1980

Legal Cases

Adoption Petition SPAD16-00003 & 4 - J4
Granted.

Adoption Petition, 2015-A-19, Liberty Superior Court
Granted.

Adoption Petition, No. 2007-A-005, Bryan County Superior Court
Adoption granted.

View all legal cases

Associations

Savannah Catholic Lawyers Guild
Member
2007 - Present

Savannah Bar Association
Member
1983 - Present

Georgia Council of Adoption Lawyers
Fellow (membership dropped in 2020 because of GCAL's activism)
2010 - 2020

Savannah Christian Church Adoption Ministry
Advisor
2008 - 2009

Gateway Behavioral Health Services
Chair, Programs Committee
2006 - 2012

Gateway Behavioral Health Services
Community Service Board Member
2004 - 2012

Savannah Care Center
Pres., Board Directors
1994 - 2008

Savannah Care Center
Board Member
1992 - 2010

Federalist Society chapter - UGA Law School
Founder
1982 - 1983

Mensa
LocSec, NwsLtr. Ed.
1981 - 1988

View all associations

Languages Spoken

Italian

English

Honors and Awards

Pro Bono Advocate Award
Georgia Legal Services
2017

AmJur Award, Highest Grade in Future Interests Law School Class
AmJur / West Publishing
1982

Cum Laude / Dean's List all 4 years of college
Wake Forest University
1980

Publications

The Citation (Savannah Bar Association monthly newsletter)
November is National Adoption Month
2022

BiS (Business in Savannah)
BiS Newsmakers, the movers, the shakers, the risk-takers
2011

Something Special Magazine
Birney Bull, The Adoption Attorney and Special Father
2011

Savannah Morning News
Promoting adoption as an alternative
2008

Savannah Morning News
Hart to Heart: 'You don't give back your imperfect child'
2008

Savannah Morning News
Completing a family portrait
2004

SavannahNOW.com
Adoption live chat
2004

Website
www.AdoptNeed.com
2003

Savannah Morning News
City Talk: Local attorney opens adoption law practice
2003

Georgia Journal of International and Comparative Law, 13:575
Income Tax --- Deductions for Facilitating Payments to Foreign Government Officials
1983

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

E62: Adoption Lawyer, Down Syndrome Daughter, Passion To Help Orphans Find Homes
Adoption career
2021

Adoption Summit 2019
The Role of Birthmothers in Bonding with Your Adopted Child
2019

Social Justice, Life, and Adoption
Adoption and Social Justice
2011

Adoption in American Society
Adoption Ain't What It Used to Be
2011

Internet Radio Interview (podcast on site)
Three Categories for a Successful Adoption
2010

Adoption: Is It for You?
Adoption: Is It for You?
2010

Exploring the World of Adoption
Exploring the World of Adoption
2009

Exploring the World of Adoption
Exploring the World of Adoption
2009

Mid-Morning Live interview, Sonny Dixon
Adoption
2008

Annual Convention of National Life Center
Adoption and Crisis Pregnancy Center Clients
2008

Adoption and Foster Parenting Information Night
Adoption and Foster Parenting Information
2008

Through the Arches
Adoption
2003

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (23)

Given (39)

Endorse Birney

Will Cubbedge

Adoption Attorney | Jun 26
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Birney Bull's name is a byword for Adoption Law in south Georgia. He is a brilliant lawyer, a committed advocate for women and children, and a pleasure to work with."

Sarah Weddle

Adoption Attorney | Mar 05
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I had the privilege of interning for Birney during law school, and I wholeheartedly endorse him. He gave me an education not just in good lawyering, but on what it means to be a counselor and advocate for real people. Now, as a family law attorney, I appreciate those learning lessons and try to use them in my own practice. Birney is an excellent lawyer but also someone with a keen understanding of the human condition, and I would recommend him to anyone needing help in the adoption process."

Judd Nemiro

Unknown Attorney | Dec 12
Relationship: Other

"This lawyer is knowledgeable, efficient and talented. I endorse this lawyer."

Josie Redwine

Adoption Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Lawrence Gibney

Adoption Attorney | Aug 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

John Cullum

Adoption Attorney | Aug 02
Relationship: Co-worker

"Birney is among the most professional lawyers. He sincerely wants to help his clients and is very knowledgeable in the field of adoption."

Christian Lassen

Unknown Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."

Howard Lewis

Adoption Attorney | Feb 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Bull is one of the finest Adoption Attorneys in his state. Not on is he an outstanding attorney he is compassionate and caring about his clients and our society. Attorney Bull is a strong and zealous advocate and a credit to the legal profession. I highly recommend his legal services."

Jamie Casino

Unknown Attorney | Jan 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joshua Lowther

Adoption Attorney | May 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Birney has used his considerable legal knowledge and skill to develop and nurture a very niche adoption practice that is nothing less than impressive. His passion for adoption law (and compassion for his clients) is palpable when you're around him. I enthusiastically recommend Birney."

James Blackburn

Adoption Attorney | Apr 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Birney is not only an excellent adoption lawyer he is a very fine appellate lawyer too. His decision to practice adoption law came from his strong belief in adoption as the best alternative for unwanted pregnancies. I have worked with Birney on briefs and motions and can attest to his strong analytical, research and writing skills. Birney is kind, compassionate and giving. He is also an excellent and involved parent who understands the importance of nurturing children."

Catherine Bowman

Adoption Attorney | Mar 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Birney is passionate about adoption, and about his clients. He is also superb writer! He is the attorney in Savannah for adoptions!"

Krista Dunning

Adoption Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Friend

"Birney is the go-to guy for adoptions. He is extremely knowledgeable, compassionate, and professional. He's at the top of his field."

Mark Bandy

Adoption Attorney | Mar 19
Relationship: Friend

"I know Birney to be a truly professional and compassionate attorney who is the city specialist in the area of adoption. Birney is, no doubt, the premier adoption attorney in Savannah."

John Berlon

Adoption Attorney | Mar 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Birney for the past 10 years and endorse him for anyone seeking an adoption attorney. Although he has a law practice dedicated to this specific area of the law, it is quite clear that his passion and intelligence goes beyond his vocation."

Kenneth Johnson

Adoption Attorney | Mar 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I am glad to recommend Birney's services as an adoption attorney. He focuses his practice on adoption law and is the most knowledgeable attorney in the Savannah area on the intricacies of that area of the law. He is well-recognized in the legal community as the "go-to guy" for all adoption issues. On top of his extensive knowledge, he handles all of his cases with precision, attention and a passion for his work."