In the fall of 2024, the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) mailed letters to parents who once had an open dependecy and/or severance case.
Did you receive a letter? Visit the DCS letter page for more information.
Final Adoption Hearing
A final adoption hearing is held no earlier than 6 months after the adoption petition is filed, unless their are time-sensitive matters involving the best interest of the child (example: a fatal, chronic, or debilitating disease).
Attendees
At an adoption hearing the following will be in attendance:
- Petitioner(s)
- The child being adopted
- County or private attorney
- Judge or Commissioner
Adoption hearings are closed to the public. If requested the court may allow for friends and family to sit in during the hearing. Attendees are not allowed to discuss anything that takes place at the hearing.
Things to know about the final adoption hearing
- Petitioner(s) are required to testify at the hearing. They will be questioned by either their attorney or the county attorney.
- Unless the court grants permission, children aged 12 years old or older, are required to consent to the adoption and appear at the hearing.
- With permission you may take photos during the adoption proceedings.
Ruling
The ruling of the court is determined on a preponderance of the evidence. The court may consider any and all reports and make its findings on the best interest of the child.
Resources
State Statute - A.R.S. § 8-106
State Statute - A.R.S. § 8-113
State Statute - A.R.S. § 8-115