What is the purpose of adoption hearings?

Adopting a child is a process that involves many steps. One of the steps that you will have to go through, even if the adoption is through an agency, is going to court. Understanding the court process might help you to feel better prepared as you go through the adoption process.

What is the purpose of the hearing?

Adoption hearings are done in order to ensure that moving forward with the adoption is in the best interests of the child. If the child has a personal representative who was appointed by the court, this person will attend the hearing to give insight into the adoption. You will have to show that the child’s best interest is to be adopted by you.

Who might be notified of the hearing?

Anyone who has an interest in the hearing will be notified of the hearing. This can include the adoption agency, the child if certain age requirements are met, the biological parents and all representatives for the adoption.

What happens if the court agrees to the adoption?

If the court agrees to the adoption, the final decree of adoption is issued. Once that decree is issued, the child is legally your child. If you asked for the child’s name to be changed, this will be ordered when the decree is issued.

The adoption process can be rather complex. If you are considering an adoption, you must ensure that your legal rights are being respected. Any missteps could result in your adoption petition being denied. For this reason, you should make sure that you fully understand each step in the adoption process.