Adoption and Paternity

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Finding Optimal Resolutions For Matters of Paternity & Adoption

Where there is a dispute about whether someone is the father of a child or should be named as the father of a child, you can apply to the Court for a paternity order or for a declaration as to paternity. The Court can recommend that a DNA test is undertaken to help determine whether a man is the father of a child.

If you’re considering adopting a child, Rotherham Law can help you understand what’s involved and step you through the process.

Each year only a small number of children are adopted. It is the birth parents that make the decision about who they would like to care for their child. Rotherham Law works with both birth parents and adoptive parents to navigate the legal system and Oranga Tamariki requirements for private adoptions. We also work with blended families where there is a wish to adopt a stepchild. The Family could decides whether to grant an adoption order based on the whether is promotes the welfare and interests of the child concerned.

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Professional

We set a standard of professionalism that spans our entire client base, ensuring legal equality.

Respectful

Respect for person, property & perspective is a core value of every case with us.

Client Focused

Our first priority is you. We understand every case is different, and should be treated as such.

Supportive

Legal undertaking can be a stressful time. Ensuring you feel comfortable & supported is a priority.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The first step is to contact Oranga Tamariki and attend a information session on adoption. Private adoptions are still required to have a social worker assessment completed. You must apply and provide basic information about yourself, provide references, medical information about your health and complete a police check. There is an assessment interview with social worker to ensure you can meet the needs of an adopted child. Find out more about the assessment process on our Practice Centre website. Rotherham Law can assist with the final steps which is the making an application by the adoptive parents to the Family Court or provide the independent legal advice to the birth parents.

The adoptive parents pay the legal costs of the birth parents independent legal advice on the consent required to be signed by them in addition to their own legal fees. These vary from firm to firm. There is not filing fee for an order for adoption. For more information on our costs please contact us directly as these will vary from case to case.

Yes both parties must consent to their DNA being collected and the mother of the child also needs to agree to the child’s DNA being collected.

Yes if there is agreement to this occurring or through an application to the Family Court being granted.