Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey

Adoption Advice

This pertains to a friend of mine who is adopted. He has all his legal documents including original birth certificate. He has often wonder why & what this means but hasn't been able to afford an attorney to ask. On his Final Judgement of Adoption Decree it is hand written a different surname for the mother, other than what is written on the original certificate. This surname nor the father's match the childs birth name. Ex: Child, Smith. Mother Doe AKA Jones. Birth parents are deceased as well as the adoptive parents therefore no one to ask. In the legal practice's for adoption is this something that is done? And why? Is it possible the childs birth name was false on the original therefore corrected at the time of court? Or the birth mother got married & the new surname added on? Thank you for your help.

Diane


Asked on 7/25/00, 8:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Beverly Muller Beverly Sharps Muller, Esquire

Re: Adoption Advice

hi - when i do adoptions in nj, the state asks for the adoptive mother's maiden name, as well as her surname now. i'd have to look at your friend's papers to see what's going on. often, the adoptive parents change the child's name, which is reflected in the judgment of adoption as well as the new "original" birth certificate. feel free to call me at 609 263-0089 if you have any other questions. good luck !!

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Answered on 9/12/00, 11:57 pm


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