The Child Protection Board in Amsterdam plays a crucial role in the stepparent adoption procedure at the Amsterdam District Court. Following the submission of the request, an independent investigation into the child's best interests is conducted, tailored to the diverse family situations in the capital.
Investigation Phase in Amsterdam
The Amsterdam branch of the Child Protection Board conducts home visits in neighbourhoods such as the Jordaan, Oost or Zuid, interviews all involved parties and evaluates the family situation. Extra attention is paid to emotional bonding, the stepparent's parenting qualities and the impact on the child in a vibrant urban environment like Amsterdam. This investigation typically lasts 3-6 months and takes into account local factors such as multiculturalism and housing pressure.
Recommendation to the Amsterdam District Court
The Child Protection Board issues a report with advice: for or against adoption. Judges at the Amsterdam District Court follow this advice in 85% of cases, unless there are compelling contra-indications, such as instability due to the high cost of living in the city.
Appeal Procedure and Digitalisation
An objection can be lodged against a negative advice at the court. Since 2025, digitalisation of reports has been introduced via the Amsterdam justice portal for faster processing. Parents can submit their own pleading note, supported by local agencies such as the District Youth Care Team.
This ensures objectivity and protects the child in the Amsterdam context. For preparation: gather evidence of a stable family situation, the stepparent's involvement and integration into the local community, such as school reports from Amsterdam primary schools.