Consent to adoption template (Uganda)
In brief
A precedent consent to the adoption of a child, to support an adoption application.
When to use this
When a parent or guardian consents to a child’s adoption.
When a bespoke document is needed instead: Where consent is contested or to be dispensed with — that is a matter for the court; take advice.
The template
A precedent only. Replace every [PLACEHOLDER] with your own details; it contains no real party data. Have it reviewed before use.
Heading
IN THE [CHIEF MAGISTRATE’S COURT / HIGH COURT] OF UGANDA AT [PLACE]
ADOPTION CAUSE NO. […] OF [YEAR]
IN THE MATTER OF THE CHILDREN ACT AND IN THE MATTER OF [CHILD NAME]
CONSENT TO ADOPTION
1. The consenting party
1.1 I, [NAME], (NIN [NIN]) of [ADDRESS], am the [biological parent / legal guardian] of [CHILD NAME], born on [DATE].
2. Consent
2.1 I HEREBY CONSENT to the adoption of the Child by [APPLICANT(S) NAME(S)] of [ADDRESS].
3. Understanding of effect
3.1 I understand and confirm that an adoption order permanently ends my parental rights and responsibilities and vests them in the adopter(s), and that I give this consent freely and not for any payment or reward.
4. The child’s welfare
4.1 I believe this adoption is for the welfare of the Child, whose wishes (where old enough) have been considered.
5. Execution
5.1 Dated [DATE]. ____________ (Consenting parent / guardian)
5.2 Before me: ____________ Commissioner for Oaths.
Drafting notes
- Informed consent
- The consent must be informed — record that the effect of adoption (permanent transfer of parental responsibility) is understood.
- No payment
- Confirm the consent is free and not for reward; adoption for payment is unlawful.
- Child’s view
- Where the Child is old enough, the court considers the Child’s wishes — note that they were considered.
- Welfare & court
- The court makes the order only if it is for the Child’s welfare and the statutory requirements (age, fostering period) are met.
Execution requirements
- The consenting parent/guardian signs before a Commissioner for Oaths.
- File the consent with the adoption application in the correct court (Chief Magistrate for citizens; High Court for non-citizens).
- The court must be satisfied the statutory requirements (age, fostering period, welfare) are met.
Governing law & citations
Governed by the Children Act, Cap. 62 (2023 Revision), ss.3, 87–88.
- Children Act, Cap. 62 (2023 Revision) — ss.3, 87, 88.