Adoption | Lawyer The Hague

Legal assistance with adoption

Are you considering adopting a child? Or do you already have a foster child and want to formalize your legal parenthood?

The adoption process can be complex and emotionally draining. Whether it is a domestic adoption, an international adoption, or a stepparent adoption, legal assistance is essential to ensure that the process runs smoothly. At our law firm, you will find the expertise and guidance of an experienced adoption attorney.

The different types of adoption

Domestic adoption: This is the adoption of a child born in the Netherlands. The adoption process is handled by the Child Protection Board and the court. Domestic adoption can involve both babies put up for adoption and older children.

Stepparent adoption: When you adopt your partner's child, for example in a blended family, this is called stepparent adoption. This type of adoption legalizes the stepparent's role as a legal parent, which is important in terms of rights and responsibilities to the child.

Foster Parent Adoption: In some cases, foster parents can adopt their long-term foster child. This usually happens when there is a close and lasting bond between the child and the foster parent.

The Adoption Process

1. Petition and Investigation
The first step in the adoption process is to file a petition with the court. The Child Protection Board then conducts a thorough investigation into the best interests of the child and the suitability of the prospective adoptive parents.

2. Assessment by the judge
The judge assesses the application on the basis of the report of the Child Protection Board. This judicial review is an essential part of the adoption process.

3. Finalization and Legal Consequences
Once the judge approves your application, you officially become the legal parent of the child. This means that the legal ties with the biological parents are severed and you receive full parental rights.

Need help completing the adoption process?

Our family law attorneys, including a specialist adoption attorney, will guide you carefully and personally through every step of the process. We provide clarity, legal certainty and compassionate support in what is often a very personal process.

Questions about this area of law?

Please contact Sandra Verburgt

Contact me

Team family law

Sandra Verburgt

Attorney at law/partner

Nicole van Leeuwen

Attorney at law/mediator

Fabian Buizer

Advocaat

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