The Child Protection Board Westland, active in the municipality of Westland with a main focus on greenhouse and horticulture families, plays a crucial role in the stepparent adoption procedure. After submission of the request to the court in The Hague, an independent investigation into the child's best interests follows, tailored to the local family culture.
Investigation Phase in Westland
The Board conducts home visits in places such as Naaldwijk, Monster, Poeldijk and Kwintsheul, interviews all involved parties and evaluates the family situation. Extra attention is paid to emotional bonding in busy agricultural households, the parenting qualities of the stepparent and the impact on the child, taking into account Westland work rhythms. This process usually takes 3-6 months.
Recommendation to the Judge
The Board issues a report with advice: for or against adoption. Judges in The Hague follow this advice in 85% of cases, unless there are significant contra-indications, such as instability due to seasonal work in the greenhouse horticulture sector.
Appeal Procedure
An objection can be lodged against a negative advice at the court. Since 2025, digitalisation of reports has been introduced for faster processing in the Westland region. Parents can submit their own pleading note, supported by local institutions such as the Westland Legal Advice Office.
This ensures objectivity and protects the child in the Westland context. For preparation: gather evidence of a stable family situation, stepparent involvement and adaptations to local working conditions.