The Child Protection Board in the The Hague region, responsible for Delft, plays a crucial role in stepparent adoption procedures. After submission of the request to the court in The Hague, an independent investigation into the child's best interests begins, with specific attention to local family situations in Delft.
Investigation Phase in Delft
The Board conducts home visits in Delft neighbourhoods such as the city centre or Voorhof, interviews all involved parties and evaluates the family situation. The focus is on emotional attachment to the Delft living environment, parenting qualities of the stepparent and impact on the child within the vibrant student city. This process usually takes 3-6 months, taking into account local factors such as proximity to schools at Delft University of Technology.
Recommendation to the Judge
The Board issues a report with advice: for or against adoption. Judges at the The Hague District Court follow this advice in 85% of cases, unless there are significant contra-indications, such as instability due to the dynamic Delft housing market.
Appeal Procedure
An objection can be lodged against a negative advice at the court. Since 2025, digitalisation of reports has been introduced for faster processing in the region. Parents can submit their own pleading note, supported by local institutions such as the Juridisch Loket in Delft.
This ensures objectivity and protects the child in the Delft context. For preparation: gather evidence of a stable family situation, stepparent involvement and integration into the community, such as participation in local events around the Nieuwe Kerk.