Adoption is the legal process in which a person assumes responsibility for the health, safety, well-being, and financial support of another person—usually a child—and terminates the rights and responsibilities of the adopted person’s biological parent or parents.
In Hawaii, adoption is governed by state statutes found in the Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS), specifically in Title 31 Family, Chapter 578 Adoption. The process legally establishes a parent-child relationship between the adoptive parents and the child, granting the adoptive parents the same rights and responsibilities as if they were the child’s biological parents. This process also legally terminates the rights and responsibilities of the biological parents. To adopt a child in Hawaii, prospective adoptive parents must go through a home study process, obtain consent from the child's legal parents or guardians (if applicable), and receive approval from a court. The court will consider the best interests of the child in its decision. There are different types of adoption available, including agency adoptions, private adoptions, and international adoptions. The process can vary depending on the type of adoption and the specific circumstances of the child and adoptive parents. It is recommended to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law to navigate the complexities of the adoption process in Hawaii.