Article Guide
The Alabama Adoption Report form is a crucial document in the adoption process, ensuring that all necessary information is accurately recorded and submitted. This form must be completed by the petitioners, their attorney, or the Court, depending on the circumstances of the adoption. Notably, if a licensed child-placing agency or the State Department of Human Resources facilitated the child's placement, certain details, such as information about the natural parents and the child's place of birth, can be omitted. This information will instead be provided directly to the State Registrar by the agency involved. After the final decree of adoption is issued, the Clerk of the Court is responsible for certifying the report and forwarding it, along with the final decree, to the State Registrar within ten days. For children born in Alabama, a new birth certificate will be prepared, reflecting the child's new name and adoptive parents, for a fee of $25. Conversely, if the child was born outside of Alabama, the final decree and adoption report will be sent to the appropriate official in the state of birth for a fee of $10. The form includes sections for both the child's original and post-adoption information, ensuring a seamless transition for the child into their new family. Understanding the components and requirements of this form is essential for adoptive parents and legal representatives alike.
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A L A B A M A
REPORT OF ADOPTI ON
INSTRUCTIONS: Parts I and II of this report must be completed by the petitioners, their attorney, or the Court. If the child was placed by a licensed
Within ten (10) days after the final decree of adoption has been made, the Clerk of the Court shall make his certification in Part III, affix his official seal, and forward this report with the final decree of adoption to the State Registrar, Center for Health Statistics, P. O. Box 5625, Montgomery, Alabama
PART I |
INFORMATION ABOUT CHILD (To Identify Original Birth Certificate) |
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NOTE: If the official birth certificate number is entered, the names of the father and mother may be omitted. |
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Full Name of Child at Birth |
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Birth Certificate Number |
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Place of Birth |
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State and Country of Birth |
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Date of Birth |
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Sex |
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Full Maiden Name of NATURAL Mother |
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Full Name of LEGAL Father |
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PART II |
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INFORMATION AFTER ADOPTION (FOR NEW BIRTH CERTIfiCATE) |
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Full Name of Child After Adoption |
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FATHER — Full Name |
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Father’s State of Birth (If not in U.S.A., name country) |
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Father’s Date of Birth |
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Father (Check One) |
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Adoptive |
Natural |
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MOTHER — Full Maiden Name |
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Mother’s Legal Name First |
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Mother’s Date of Birth |
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Mother’s State of Birth (If not in U.S.A., name country) |
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Mother’s Usual |
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Mother’s Residence — County |
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Mother’s Residence — City or Town and Zip Code |
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Mother’s Residence — Street Address (If rural, give location) |
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Mother’s Residence — Inside City |
Mother (Check One) |
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Limits (Specify Yes or No) |
Adoptive |
Natural |
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Mailing Address of Adoptive Parents |
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Phone Number |
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Name and Full Address of Attorney Or Agency Representative |
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Phone Number |
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PART III |
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CERTIFICATION OF CLERK OF COURT |
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Must be properly signed, dated and sealed. |
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For City, County |
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Name of Court |
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of |
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I hereby certify that the adoption as set forth above was made final in this Court by decree dated
and bearing No. |
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Signature |
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(Seal) |
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Form Specifications
| Fact Name | Details |
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| Governing Laws | The Alabama Adoption Report is governed by Alabama Code § 26-10A-30. |
| Completion Requirements | Parts I and II must be completed by the petitioners, their attorney, or the Court. |
| Submission Deadline | The Clerk of the Court must submit the report within ten days after the final adoption decree. |
| Fee Information | The fee for a new birth certificate is $25.00; forwarding to another state costs $10.00. |
Alabama Adoption Report: Usage Guidelines
Completing the Alabama Adoption Report form is an important step in finalizing the adoption process. After filling out the form, it will need to be submitted to the appropriate authorities as outlined in the instructions. Below are the steps to follow when filling out the form.
- Begin with Part I, which requires information about the child. Fill in the child's full name at birth, including first, middle, and last names.
- Enter the birth certificate number, if available. If not, you may omit this detail.
- Provide the place of birth, including the city or town, state, and country.
- Record the child's date of birth and sex.
- Fill in the full maiden name of the natural mother, including first, middle, and last names.
- Enter the full name of the legal father, including first, middle, and last names.
- Move to Part II, which contains information after the adoption. Fill in the child's full name after adoption.
- Provide the full name of the adoptive father, including first, middle, and last names.
- Indicate the father's state of birth. If born outside the U.S., include the country name.
- Record the father's date of birth.
- Check the appropriate box to indicate if the father is adoptive or natural.
- Fill in the full maiden name of the adoptive mother, including first, middle, and last names.
- Enter the mother's legal name, including first, middle, and last names.
- Record the mother's date of birth and state of birth. Include the country name if applicable.
- Provide the mother's usual residence state, county, city or town, and zip code.
- Fill in the street address of the mother's residence. Specify if it is inside city limits.
- Indicate the mailing address of the adoptive parents and their phone number.
- Provide the name and full address of the attorney or agency representative, along with their phone number and title.
- Complete Part III by having the Clerk of the Court certify the adoption. This includes signing, dating, and sealing the document.
- Ensure that the name of the court and the decree number are filled in accurately.
After completing the form, it must be forwarded to the State Registrar along with the final decree of adoption within ten days. Be sure to include the required fees for processing.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the Alabama Adoption Report form?
The Alabama Adoption Report form is a document that must be completed during the adoption process in Alabama. It includes information about the child, the natural parents, and the adoptive parents. The form is essential for updating the child's birth certificate and ensuring that all legal requirements are met after an adoption is finalized.
Who is responsible for completing the form?
The form must be completed by the petitioners, their attorney, or the court. This ensures that the information is accurate and legally valid. If a licensed child-placing agency or the State Department of Human Resources placed the child, they will provide certain information directly to the State Registrar.
What information is required in Part I of the form?
Part I gathers details about the child to identify the original birth certificate. This includes the child's full name at birth, birth certificate number, place of birth, date of birth, sex, and the names of the natural parents. If the birth certificate number is provided, the names of the parents may be omitted.
What information is needed in Part II of the form?
Part II collects information for the new birth certificate after adoption. This includes the child's new name, the adoptive father's and mother's full names, their dates and states of birth, and their usual residence. This part ensures that the child's new identity is officially recorded.
What happens after the adoption is finalized?
Once the adoption is finalized, the Clerk of the Court must complete Part III of the form. They will certify the adoption, affix their official seal, and forward the report along with the final decree of adoption to the State Registrar within ten days.
What are the fees associated with the adoption report?
There are two primary fees. If the child was born in Alabama, there is a $25 fee to prepare the new birth certificate, which includes one certified copy. If the child was not born in Alabama, a $10 fee is required to forward the final decree and report to the appropriate official in the state of birth.
How can I obtain a certified copy of the new birth certificate?
To obtain a certified copy of the new birth certificate, you should contact the state where the child was born if they were not born in Alabama. If the child was born in Alabama, you can request a copy through the Alabama State Board of Health.
What if the child was placed for adoption by an agency?
If the child was placed by a licensed child-placing agency or the State Department of Human Resources, some information, such as the natural parents' details, will be provided directly to the State Registrar. This means that the petitioners do not need to include this information on the form.
Why is the Alabama Adoption Report form important?
This form is crucial for legally documenting the adoption and ensuring that the child's identity is updated in official records. It helps protect the rights of the adoptive parents and the child, and it facilitates the issuance of a new birth certificate reflecting the adoptive family's information.
Common mistakes
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Failing to complete all required sections of the form. Each part is essential for processing the adoption.
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Not providing accurate information about the child's original birth certificate. This can delay the issuance of the new birth certificate.
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Omitting the full names of the adoptive parents. This information is crucial for the new birth certificate.
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Forgetting to check the correct boxes indicating whether the parents are adoptive or natural. This distinction is important for legal purposes.
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Neglecting to sign and date Part III of the form. The Clerk of Court's certification is vital for the report's validity.
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Using an incorrect or outdated mailing address for the State Registrar. Ensure that the address is current to avoid delays.
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Not including the correct fee payment. Double-check the amount and make sure it is payable to the Alabama State Board of Health.
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Failing to provide a phone number for the adoptive parents. This information can be necessary for follow-up communication.
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Inaccurately listing the place of birth. This information must match official records to prevent complications.
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Submitting the form after the ten-day deadline following the final decree of adoption. Timeliness is critical in this process.
Documents used along the form
When navigating the adoption process in Alabama, several important forms and documents accompany the Alabama Adoption Report form. Each of these documents plays a vital role in ensuring that the adoption is legally recognized and that all necessary information is accurately recorded. Below is a list of commonly used documents in conjunction with the adoption process.
- Petition for Adoption: This document initiates the adoption process and outlines the petitioners' request to adopt a child. It includes details about the child and the petitioners, as well as their relationship to the child.
- Home Study Report: Conducted by a licensed social worker or agency, this report assesses the suitability of the adoptive home. It includes interviews, background checks, and evaluations of the family's environment.
- Consent to Adoption: This form is required from the biological parents or legal guardians of the child being adopted. It indicates their voluntary agreement to the adoption and relinquishment of parental rights.
- Final Decree of Adoption: Issued by the court, this document finalizes the adoption. It includes the judge's signature and serves as the official record of the adoption.
- Birth Certificate Application: After the adoption is finalized, this application is used to request a new birth certificate reflecting the child's new name and adoptive parents.
- Background Check Forms: These forms are completed by the adoptive parents to allow for criminal history checks. They are a crucial part of the vetting process to ensure the safety of the child.
- Medical History Form: This document provides important health information about the child, including any known medical conditions and family medical history, which is vital for the adoptive parents.
- Post-Adoption Contact Agreement: If applicable, this agreement outlines the terms of ongoing contact between the adoptive family and the biological family, ensuring clarity on communication and visits.
Understanding these documents and their purposes can significantly ease the adoption process. Each form contributes to creating a secure and legally sound environment for the child and the adoptive family. By being well-informed, prospective adoptive parents can navigate this journey with confidence.
Similar forms
The Alabama Adoption Report form shares similarities with several other important documents related to adoption and child welfare. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose in the adoption process or in maintaining records of a child's identity. Below are six documents that are comparable to the Alabama Adoption Report form:
- Adoption Petition: This document initiates the legal process of adoption. It outlines the petitioners' intent to adopt and provides essential information about the child and the biological parents, similar to how the Alabama Adoption Report requires details about the child and parents.
- Final Decree of Adoption: This official court order finalizes the adoption. Like the Alabama Adoption Report, it includes critical information about the child and adoptive parents, and it must be filed with the state registrar to update the child's legal status.
- Birth Certificate: The original birth certificate records the child's birth details. The Alabama Adoption Report facilitates the creation of a new birth certificate post-adoption, reflecting the child's new name and adoptive parents, thus altering the original record.
- Post-Adoption Contact Agreement: This document outlines any agreed-upon communication between the adoptive family and the biological parents. While the Alabama Adoption Report focuses on legal documentation, both documents aim to clarify relationships and responsibilities after adoption.
- Home Study Report: Conducted before an adoption is finalized, this report assesses the adoptive family's suitability. Like the Alabama Adoption Report, it is a vital part of the adoption process, ensuring that the child's best interests are prioritized.
- Adoption Disclosure Statement: This statement provides information about the child's background and any relevant medical history. Similar to the Alabama Adoption Report, it ensures that adoptive parents are informed about the child's origins and needs.
Dos and Don'ts
When completing the Alabama Adoption Report form, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Adhering to these guidelines can ensure a smoother process and help avoid unnecessary delays.
- Do ensure all required sections are filled out completely. Each part of the form has specific information that must be provided. Missing details can lead to complications.
- Do double-check the accuracy of names and dates. Mistakes in spelling or incorrect dates can create issues later, especially when it comes to legal documentation.
- Do submit the form within the specified time frame. The report must be sent to the State Registrar within ten days after the final decree of adoption to comply with state regulations.
- Do include the correct fees. Make sure to include the appropriate payment for the new birth certificate and any other required fees to avoid processing delays.
- Don’t omit necessary information if the child was not placed by an agency. If the adoption did not involve a licensed child-placing agency, all details about the natural parents must be included.
- Don’t forget to sign and seal Part III. The certification by the Clerk of Court must be properly signed and sealed; otherwise, the form will be considered incomplete.
- Don’t use informal or unclear language. The form should be filled out using clear and formal language to ensure that the information is understood by all parties involved.
- Don’t delay in forwarding the report. Once completed, the report should be sent promptly to the State Registrar to avoid any potential issues with the adoption process.
Misconceptions
Misconceptions about the Alabama Adoption Report form can lead to confusion for those navigating the adoption process. Below are nine common misconceptions, along with clarifications for each.
- Only attorneys can complete the form. While attorneys can assist, the form can also be completed by the petitioners themselves or the court.
- All personal information must be included. If the child was placed by a licensed agency or the State Department of Human Resources, certain details about the natural parents and birth certificate can be omitted.
- The report must be submitted immediately after adoption. The report must be submitted within ten days after the final decree of adoption, not immediately.
- There is no fee associated with the new birth certificate. A fee of $25.00 is required to prepare the new birth certificate, which includes one certified copy.
- All adoptions are finalized in Alabama. If the adopted child was not born in Alabama, the report will be forwarded to the appropriate official in the state of birth.
- Anyone can obtain a certified copy of the new birth certificate. To obtain a certified copy, one must contact the state of birth if the child was born outside Alabama.
- The form does not require the child's birth certificate number. The birth certificate number is essential for identifying the original birth certificate, unless it is omitted due to agency placement.
- All adoptive parents must be married. The form accommodates both single and married adoptive parents, allowing for various family structures.
- The Clerk of Court does not need to sign the form. The Clerk of Court must certify the form by signing, dating, and sealing it to validate the adoption.
Understanding these misconceptions can help streamline the adoption process and ensure compliance with Alabama's requirements.
Key takeaways
Key Takeaways for the Alabama Adoption Report Form:
- Parts I and II must be filled out by the petitioners, their attorney, or the Court. Make sure all required information is accurate and complete.
- If a licensed child-placing agency or the State Department of Human Resources placed the child, certain details about the natural parents and the child’s birth can be omitted.
- The Clerk of the Court must certify the form within ten days after the adoption decree. This certification needs to be sent to the State Registrar along with the final decree.
- Fees apply for preparing a new birth certificate and for forwarding documents to another state if the child was not born in Alabama. Be prepared to pay $25 for a new birth certificate and $10 for forwarding documents.