The consent rules form the core of the stepparent adoption procedure in Delft. Primarily, consent is required from the biological parent whose legal relationship will be terminated, the cohabiting parent, and the child from the age of 12. Without this consent, the court in Delft may only withhold it in cases of gross neglect or unfitness, in accordance with national legislation applied by the District Court of The Hague, Delft division.
Procedure in Case of Refusal of Consent in Delft
If the non-cohabiting biological parent refuses consent, the Delft family court assesses whether the refusal is in the best interest of the child. Criteria include the duration of contact with the biological parent, potential harm caused by the adoption, and local circumstances such as family ties in the Delft region. In cases of prolonged lack of contact (e.g., 5 years), consent may be waived, as recently confirmed in cases before the District Court of The Hague. In Delft, with its close-knit communities around the TU Delft and historic city center, the stability of the family often plays a significant role.
Role of the Child in Delft Procedures
Children aged 12 and older are heard by the judge or a family guardian in Delft. Their opinion carries significant weight, with attention given to local school and social circles. For younger children, an assessment of their best interests is conducted by the Child Protection Board in the Haaglanden region, which often conducts home visits in Delft neighborhoods such as the city center or Hof van Delft.
Consequences of Consent and Local Statistics
Following consent, an investigation is initiated by the Child Protection Board in Delft. Successful adoption results in the complete legal dissolution of the previous parental relationship. In 2024, the District Court of The Hague approved 82% of requests in the Delft region after rigorous assessment. Local family law attorneys in Delft, such as those affiliated with the Delft Bar Association, emphasize the importance of seeking early advice. Always consult a specialized family law attorney in Delft for tailored advice suited to your situation.