H (Step-Parent Adoption), Re

H (Step-Parent Adoption), Re

The stepfather satisfies all statutory requirements for adoption. The birth father does not have parental responsibility under Thai or English law, cannot be found, and has had no involvement in Hope's life. The adoption is in Hope's paramount interests and is supported by all parties. Therefore, the adoption order is granted.

Parties
Applicant (stepfather): SF; First Respondent (mother): M; Second Respondent (child): Hope
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
04 December 2020
Procedural Posture
Adoption / Final Judgment
Outcome
Adoption order granted
Legal Topics
Step Parent Adoption, Parental Responsibility, Consent to Adoption, International Family Law
Family Law Step Parent Adoption Parental Responsibility Consent to Adoption International Family Law

Case Brief

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Parties

SF

Applicant (stepfather)

M

First Respondent (mother)

Hope

Second Respondent (child)

Procedural Posture

Adoption / Final Judgment

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the stepfather should be granted an adoption order for the child Hope
  2. 2 Whether the consent of the birth father is required under Thai and English law
  3. 3 Whether the adoption is in the best interests of the child

Ratio Decidendi

The stepfather satisfies all statutory requirements for adoption. The birth father does not have parental responsibility under Thai or English law, cannot be found, and has had no involvement in Hope's life. The adoption is in Hope's paramount interests and is supported by all parties. Therefore, the adoption order is granted.

Court Disposition

Adoption order granted

Orders

  • Adoption order made in favour of the stepfather (SF) for the child Hope