The day a child’s adoption is finalized is one of the happiest days a family will ever experience. Adoption finalization is the end of a long and sometimes stressful legal process. It marks the official end of the adoption and the beginning of a legally recognized new family.
It’s natural for adoptive parents to have questions about finalization. Your adoption specialist will help guide you through the process, but knowing what to expect of this final step may help things go more smoothly.
What Happens in Court During Adoption Finalization?
As in most states, Michigan adoptions are finalized in family court. After the family court judge reviews the paperwork to confirm all the details are in order, they may ask the adopting parents some questions about their desire and ability to take on the responsibility of parenthood.
These questions are informal. The hearing is a positive and joyful occasion. Most judges allow some celebratory customs, such as taking photos or exchanging gifts. Once the judge signs the adoption decree, the hearing is over and the adoption is final.
Who Attends the Adoption Finalization?
They are private hearings and not open to the public. In addition to the adoptive parents and child/children, certain members of the adoption team may be required to attend. For example, the adoption attorney and the social worker overseeing the case may be included. Your attorney will let you know ahead of time who must be at the hearing.
Invited guests may attend. Some families prefer to keep the hearing private, while others invite extended family members such as grandparents or siblings. Speak with your attorney before inviting guests. Your judge or court may have specific policies about attendees.
It is not necessary for one or both birth parents to attend the finalization hearing.
After the Hearing
Although the adoption is legally finalized when the judge signs the adoption decree, there are still a few steps to take. Parents will need to obtain and amend the child’s birth certificate to reflect their new name (if applicable) and parental information. A name change also requires updated Social Security information, passports, and other identification.
Can Adoption Be Contested After the Finalization Hearing?
Termination of parental rights is a step that happens before the finalization hearing. Once a birth parent legally terminates their parental rights and all waiting periods have been satisfied, they cannot normally contest an adoption.
Some rare exceptions may apply, but your adoption attorney will advise you of all possibilities before the finalization.
Keep in mind that if you are adopting a child from out of state, all regulations from both states must be satisfied. The adoption must follow all laws laid out by the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC).
Celebrate a New Forever Family
An adoption finalization hearing signifies the end of a legal process and the beginning of a new family. Working with an adoption attorney will help you prepare for every step and ensure your rights as an adoptive parent are protected.
For legal advice about adoption or other family law issues, contact Gucciardo Family Law.
