Family Celebrates Adoption of Haitian Child

Recently, news sources have reported that an adoption story has come to a joyous end after a couple from Visalia was able to complete the adoption of their Haitian son.

Kevin and Catherin Downes were introduced to the media earlier this year after the 7.0 earthquake shook Haiti.  At that time, their soon-to-be adopted son had resided at a local orphanage.  On Monday, the Downes were finally able to legalize their adoption.

Kevin said, "Las night was like Christmas Eve, I couldn't really sleep because I was anticipating the day so much."

He told news sources that 2 ½ year old Benecio has come a long way since arriving in the United States.  Benecio has a 15 month old brother, Nathaniel, who is the Downes' biological child.

The Downes appeared before a Tular County judge to finalize the adoption, which means that Beneico will now get to share their last name.  The next step is to secure American citizenship for the child, which would have normally occurred prior to Benecio entering the U.S., but the earthquake halted that process.

Looking for assistance with adoption, such as step-parent adoption?  If so, contact us now to discuss your case with a Riverside family lawyer!