This page applies to matters commenced before 15 October 2024.
For matters commenced after 15 October 2024, click here.
After you file and serve an application for an adoption order, you will need to submit additional documents to the court.
This table summarises the steps you need to take:
Step | When |
---|---|
1. Submit the Ministry of Social and Family Development's (MSF) written consent and the child's original birth certificate | At least 7 days before the next scheduled hearing. |
2. Submit the Guardian In Adoption's (GIA) affidavit to the court and request for a further hearing | Within 2 weeks after you receive the GIA's affidavit. |
You must submit the following documents at least 7 days before the scheduled hearing:
Document | How to submit |
---|---|
The MSF's written consent to be the Guardian in Adoption (GIA) | Through eLitigation. If you are not represented by a lawyer, visit the LawNet & CrimsonLogic Service Bureau to file. The estimated filing fee is $10, excluding additional fees payable to the LawNet & CrimsonLogic Service Bureau. |
Child's original birth certificate
| In person at the Adoption Registry (Level 4, Family Justice Courts at Maxwell Road) during the operating hours. |
At the next scheduled hearing, the court will officially appoint the MSF as the GIA.
The GIA will investigate your application and prepare an affidavit, which is an assessment based on the investigation findings. You will receive the affidavit from the GIA.
Within 2 weeks of receiving the affidavit, file all of the following documents via eLitigation:
The estimated filing fees include:
Item or service | Fee |
---|---|
File the affidavit |
|
File the Request for Further Hearing of Originating Summons | $20 |
Note: This table does not include additional fees payable to the LawNet & CrimsonLogic Service Bureau.
The court will schedule a hearing date within 3 weeks after you file your request. Find out what happens at the hearing.
The information here is for general guidance as the courts do not provide legal advice. If you need further help, you may want to get independent legal advice.
Find out moreLegislation associated with this topic includes:
File and serve an application
File an application, if needed