A Hague Custody Declaration is an official document issued by the U.S. Secretary of State when a child is adopted from the United States to another country that is part of the Hague Adoption Convention. This declaration confirms that custody of the child for adoption has been legally granted in the U.S. in accordance with the Hague Adoption Convention and the Intercountry Adoption Act of 2000.
The Hague Custody Declaration is primarily used in family law, specifically in international adoption cases. It serves as a critical document that asserts the legality of custody arrangements made in the U.S. before a child is adopted by parents in another Hague Convention country. Interested parties can manage the application process themselves by utilizing legal templates provided by resources like US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A couple in the U.S. adopts a child from an orphanage in a Hague Convention country. They apply for a Hague Custody Declaration to facilitate the adoption process in that country.
Example 2: A family adopts a child from the U.S. and needs the Hague Custody Declaration to finalize the adoption in their home country, ensuring the adoption is recognized internationally.
The Hague Custody Declaration is governed by:
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Hague Custody Declaration | Document asserting custody for international adoption. | Specific to Hague Convention countries. |
| Adoption Decree | Final legal order granting adoption. | Applies after custody is established. |
| Custody Agreement | Legal document outlining custody arrangements. | Can apply to domestic situations, not specific to adoption. |
If you are involved in an international adoption, start by completing Form DS-5509 to apply for a Hague Custody Declaration. Ensure you gather all necessary supporting documents. If you need assistance, consider using US Legal Forms for templates that can guide you through the process. If the situation is complex, consulting a legal professional may be beneficial.
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical Fees | Varies; check with the U.S. Department of State. |
| Jurisdiction | U.S. Department of State. |
| Possible Penalties | Delays in adoption process if not properly filed. |
It confirms that custody for adoption has been legally granted in the U.S. and is required for international adoptions.