RICHMOND, Va. — The Supreme Court of Virginia has ruled that a U.S. Marine’s adoption of an Afghan war orphan will remain valid, bringing a major legal battle to a close and allowing the child to remain with the Virginia family that sought to adopt her.
The decision upholds a lower court ruling in favor of the Marine and his wife, affirming that the adoption was legally recognized under Virginia law despite years of legal challenges involving international custody disputes.
Years-Long Legal Dispute
The case stems from the chaotic final months of the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan. The child, whose parents were reportedly killed during the conflict, was brought to the United States amid efforts to secure her safety.
The Marine, who had served overseas, and his spouse petitioned to adopt the child in Virginia. However, the adoption became the subject of complex legal proceedings involving questions of international jurisdiction, prior custody arrangements, and competing claims over guardianship.
Lower courts ultimately sided with the Virginia family, determining that the adoption met state legal standards and that it served the best interests of the child — a central principle in family law cases.
High Court Affirms Adoption
In its ruling, the Virginia Supreme Court concluded that the lower court did not err in finalizing the adoption. The justices found that the legal requirements under Virginia adoption statutes were satisfied and that overturning the adoption would not be warranted.
The ruling effectively ends the adoption dispute within the Commonwealth and allows the child to remain with the adoptive family.
Legal experts say the decision underscores Virginia’s authority to adjudicate adoption matters when proper jurisdiction exists and reinforces the “best interest of the child” standard as paramount.
Broader Implications
The case drew national attention due to its international dimensions and the humanitarian circumstances surrounding the child’s arrival in the United States.
Advocates on both sides had argued the case raised important questions about wartime evacuations, international family rights, and cross-border custody disputes.
With the Virginia Supreme Court’s decision now issued, the adoption stands as final under state law.
