Art. 1283.4 Service of process

When someone files a petition to adopt a child from another country, they have to send a copy of that petition to certain agencies. This includes the state department that handles adoptions, along with any agency that has legal custody of the child.

The petition must include all the supporting documents that go with it. These papers cannot just be dropped in the mail normally. They have to be sent by registered or certified mail, with a return receipt requested, so there is proof the documents were received.

The person filing the adoption petition also has to pay for the postage upfront and make sure the address is correct. This process gives the department and any custodial agency official notice that the adoption case has been filed, so they have a chance to respond or get involved if needed.