Adoption Hearing Checklist
This checklist is designed to help adoptive parents and relatives prepare for their final adoption hearing in Tennessee. While every case is unique, the following items are commonly required or recommended before and during the hearing.
📋Before the Hearing
🗂️ Final Paperwork Submitted - Your attorney will handle this.
Final Order of Adoption (proposed)
Attorney Fee Affidavit/Declaration
DCS or Home Study Report
Putative Father Registry Response
Petition for Adoption (already filed)
🧾 Background Checks and Home Study Completed
DCS or Agency Home Study Report
Any Background Checks Required
👨⚖️ Notice to Interested Parties
Proper notice served (if applicable)
Proof of service filed
📅 Confirm Hearing Date and Time
Calendar confirmation with court clerk
Reminder set for appearance
📎 What to Bring to Court
Copies of all filed documents
Photo IDs for adoptive parents
Child’s birth certificate (if available)
Camera or phone (for photos after the hearing)
Any DCS-issued documentation or subsidy agreement (if applicable)
👨👩👧👦 Who Should Attend
Adoptive parents
Child
Guardian ad litem (if appointed)
Attorney (if represented)
Supportive friends or family (optional)
🎉 At the Hearing
Your attorney will ask:
Identify yourself to the judge
If you understand what the adoption will mean for your family legally
If you wish to adopt
Judge may ask:
How long the child has lived with you
Why you wish to adopt
If you understand your rights and responsibilities
Formal declaration of adoption
Optional: photo with the judge
📜 After the Hearing
Obtain certified copies of the Final Order of Adoption
Request amended birth certificate from TN Vital Records
Update Social Security information
Notify schools, pediatricians, and insurance providers
✅ Ready to Start the Adoption Process?
Schedule a consultation with Otten Law to make sure your adoption journey is on track — and stress-free.