Illegal Adoptions

Illegal Adoptions

Adoption has been a common theme in Ireland for the last 100 years and until recently was administered predominantly by institutions associated with the Catholic Church. Adoption was particularly common in Ireland due to the perceived guilt and shame of having a child out of wedlock. Thousands of children were admitted to the care of adoption institutions that failed to adopt proper procedures for the registration of adoptions.

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Investigations carried out by Barnardo’s Children’s charity have found that there may be up to 15,000 illegal adoptions throughout Ireland where adoptive parents were registered as birth parents.

The organisation Adoptions Rights Allowance have also found that at least 182 institutions or individuals across Ireland have been involved in illegal adoption practices.

One such institution that has come under intense scrutiny is the now-defunct St Patrick’s Guild which is responsible for the incorrect registration of 126 adoptions. This led to TUSLA, Ireland’s child protection agency, contacting the affected individuals in 2018 to inform them of this practice of illegal adoption.

How We Can Help

Our expert human rights solicitors are highly experienced in cases of this nature. We will request all relevant records in relation to each individual’s adoption and examine whether or not correct procedures were followed. Proceedings can then be issued against the institution responsible. If these institutions were run by the Catholic Church or the State, then proceedings could be issued against them directly.

We believe that a proper investigation of these cases will reveal that hundreds of institutions across Ireland were involved in illegal adoption, many of whom were overseen by the State or the Catholic Church. We can assist our clients in uncovering the systematic failings in relation to adoption practices in Ireland and to ultimately seek closure for victims.

Contact us for an initial enquiry. We will discuss the funding options which are available to our clients, including Legal Aid, legal expenses coverage and private paying.

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FAQs

What legal remedies are available to me?

Claims of this nature allow victims of this corrupt practice to recover damages for personal injury and loss including psychological damage, distress and anguish. Damages can also be sought for actionable conspiracy, deceit, malicious falsehood and infringement of constitutional rights.

What legal action can be taken?

In the Republic of Ireland, individuals affected by illegal adoptions or unethical adoption practices have several potential legal actions they can consider:

  1. Civil Claims: Individuals may bring civil claims seeking remedial actions or damages for the harm caused by illegal adoption practices. This could include claims for emotional distress, loss of identity, and other related damages. Civil actions can be pursued in the courts, and while there is no specific time limit like those for personal injury claims, it's important to act promptly to preserve evidence and pursue justice effectively.

  2. Inquiries and Investigations: Government-initiated inquiries or investigations may be conducted to examine historical adoption practices, particularly those involving illegal or unethical practices. These inquiries aim to uncover the truth, provide justice for those affected, and make recommendations for reforms in adoption procedures.

Navigating illegal adoption claims in Ireland requires careful consideration of legal options, support from knowledgeable professionals, and a thorough understanding of one's rights under Irish law. Seeking advice from solicitors specialising in adoption law or human rights law is crucial to determining the best course of action based on individual circumstances.

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