Revocation after Majority in Utrecht
In Utrecht, an adult adopted child can independently request revocation of the adoption pursuant to Article 1:231 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW) at the Rechtbank Midden-Nederland, Family Division. This differs from procedures for minors, as the adult can autonomously demonstrate the interest without parental interference, fitting the dynamic Utrecht society with diverse backgrounds.
The Utrecht judge assesses whether revocation is justified, often in cases of identity crises or reunification with biological family. Unlike child adoption cases, there is no automatic priority for stability here, but rather a focus on personal growth, as seen in recent cases at the court's Domtoren location.
Conditions and Procedure in Utrecht
1. Demonstrating Own Interest
The request must be supported by personal suffering, such as psychological damage due to deception in the adoption. Proof via therapy reports from Utrecht psychologists or witness statements is essential. Local organizations such as the Juridisch Loket Utrecht offer free advice for gathering this evidence.
2. Procedural Steps at Rechtbank Midden-Nederland
Submission at the court in Utrecht (Vredesbuilding), with hearings for all involved parties. Adoptive parents are given ample opportunities to defend. Upon granting, family law ties are severed, records are amended via the Utrecht court registry, and follow-up care via regional welfare services may follow.
This arrangement gives adults in Utrecht autonomy, but judges act cautiously against abuse, partly due to the high caseload in the region. Costs range from €500 to €2000, with possible subsidized legal aid via the Utrecht Legal Aid Team. The procedure takes an average of 6-12 months.