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Judge David D. Wolfe grants step-parent adoption for Alexander McKinnon
Summary
Humphreys County judge granted John Wayne McDonald’s petition to adopt Alexander Earl McKinnon, allowed a legal name change and approved attorney fees after finding the adoption to be in the child’s best interest.
Judge David D. Wolfe granted a petition to allow John Wayne McDonald to adopt Alexander Earl McKinnon during a hearing in Humphreys County Court. The court also approved the requested attorney fees and signaled it would enter a formal order reflecting the adoption and the requested name change.
The adoption petition—filed as an adoption by a stepparent with the biological father’s informed consent—was presented by Brandy Wommie McDonald and supported by the biological father, Douglas Earl McKinnon. Judge Wolfe told the courtroom he had to be satisfied the change of legal status was in the child’s best interest and said he was convinced the family’s circumstances met that standard.
“You’re able to, to return the favor to a young man who obviously looks up to you in every way,” the judge said during his findings. “Okay. Well, everything seems to be in order, and I’m happy to grant the adoption. So congratulations.”
The petition asked that Alexander’s surname be changed from McKinnon to McDonald; the family confirmed the child’s new name would be Alexander Earl McDonald if the court’s order was entered. The court record includes a notice of informed consent from the biological father and a filed petition for adoption by a stepparent. The judge also indicated an order approving attorney fees had been submitted and would be included in the court paperwork.
Court staff and the parties were instructed about next steps for preparing and filing the formal order. The clerk will transmit the signed order to the parties once it is entered.
The hearing transcript shows the child was present and expressed assent in the courtroom. The adoption and related orders will be effective when the formal, signed documents are filed with the clerk.
