Lawyers in Singapore
Child adoption in Singapore
by Business Listings EditorPhoto Credit: canstockphoto
Are you and your spouse looking to adopt a child in Singapore? You’re probably wondering where to start in this wonderful journey of adoption. This article will help you to understand child adoption in Singapore; it will let you know the process of adopting; and it will also help you find reputable lawyers in Singapore that can help you in every step of the way.
What is adoption?
It is a legal process governed by the Adoption of Children Act (ACA) wherein parental rights over a child are bestowed to the applicants/adoptive parents. Once adoption is complete, parental ties to the birth parents are cut off. The adopters will now take on all the parental rights, duties, responsibilities, obligations, and liabilities regarding the child. Custody, education, and proper upbringing will be the sole obligation of the adoptive parents.
Who decides on adoption orders?
The Family Justice Courts of Singapore is the authority that decides on adoption applications and makes the adoption orders.
Who is eligible to adopt?
Qualifications in adopting a child:
- 25 years or above;
- 21 years older than the child;
- However, if you are under 25, or not more than 21 years older than the child, the adoption may still be granted if the two of you are blood related, or if exceptional circumstances exist;
- If you are applying for sole adoption, and you are a male, the Court will not allow the adoption of a female child, except when special circumstances exist;
- Not more than 50 years older than the child.
Who can help you process your adoption application?
Ministry of Social and Family Development At: 512A Thomson Road, #02-01/09 SLF Podium, Singapore 298137
Hotline: 6355 6388
Fax: 6258 4823
Lawyers in Singapore who specialize in child adoption.
Ascentsia Law Corporation At: 10 Anson Road #03-22 International Plaza, Singapore 079903
Tel: (65) 6534 3552
Fax: (65) 6535 9920
Email: [email protected]
How can lawyers in Singapore help?
Child adoption in any country is a tedious legal process and Singapore child adoption is no exception. Expert lawyers in Singapore will help make the process easier for applicants. There are various steps to take and a lot of requirements to be met under the procedure of Singapore adoption law, hiring a lawyer to prepare the relevant documents and file a petition for you will be of great help. A lawyer will prepare all necessary documents on your behalf, attend Court hearings and render advice tailored to the nature of the circumstances surrounding the adoption.
The following documents will be required to commence adoption proceedings:
- Originating Summons for Adoption (OSA) andaffidavit in support of OSA;
- Adoption Statement (AS);
- The child’s birth certificate;
- The consent of the natural parents or guardian (unless dispensation of consent is sought);
- The marriage certificate and identification cards of the applicants;
- Request for Further Hearing of Originating Summons.
Some of the most important aspects a lawyer can do for you:
- Service of the OSA and related documents on the Director of Social Welfare at MSF;
- Attend all Court hearings including inter alia the hearing for OSA and the final hearing for OSA;
- Extract Adoption Order and Adoption schedule.
If building a family and having children are your goals, adoption may be your wisest choice. Help a child experience the love of parents and help make dreams come true. Child adoption in Singapore maybe a delicate procedure but with the right help, it is very much possible.
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