Chancery judge finalizes adoption for Jackson family, signs decree

Judge David D. Wolfe granted a final adoption for the Jackson family, signed the decree in court and told the adoptive parents he would enter the decree immediately.

During the hearing the judge addressed Joanna Jackson and Shamryn Jackson directly, confirming they understood the legal responsibilities of adoption and saying he would approve the adoption. He told them the adopted child "will become the same as if he was born to you biologically" and explained the adoptive parents' obligations for care and support until the child turns 18. The judge also warned that, once the adoption is granted, the court cannot simply reverse that status, saying, "Once I've done this and I've granted your adoption and made it permanent... when he turns 16, he's, out too late 1 night. You can't bring him back to me and tell me that you've made a terrible mistake."

The judge added a personal remark on the work of the court, stating that adoptions were among the most gratifying parts of his job and expressing approval for parents who provide homes for children in need. He concluded by signing the final decree and telling the parties, "You are now the parents of this young man." The court also conducted customary on-the-record questioning confirming the adopters' understanding of parental duties and family circumstances; the record shows the adopters indicated they have five other children.