Judges in Maryland's Circuit Courts are set to oversee adoption celebrations in the days leading up to National Adoption Day on November 21, 2015. This initiative, established in 2000, has seen nearly 54,500 children nationwide finalize their adoptions during these events. Despite this progress, over 100,000 children remain in foster care across the United States.
In Anne Arundel County, a National Adoption Day event will occur on Thursday, November 19. Judge Glenn L. Klavans will preside over the adoptions of children aged between nine months and thirteen years in Courtroom 4C. "This event is the result of court staff, attorneys, and local adoption agencies coming together to celebrate children finding their forever families." The event will include light refreshments and information from local adoption agencies.
Prince George’s County will honor past and present adoptive families with a ceremony on November 19 at the Upper Marlboro courthouse. Judges Sheila R. Tillerson Adams, Beverly J. Woodard, Larnzell Martin Jr., and Cathy H. Serrette will lead the proceedings. Iona Harrison and Amanda Barrett are scheduled as speakers for the event that includes a reception and gift presentation for children and families.
Montgomery County's Circuit Court will finalize the adoptions of fourteen children on Friday, November 20. Judges Richard E. Jordan, Cynthia Callahan, Cheryl A. McCally, Anne K. Albright, and Joan E. Ryon will oversee the ceremonies beginning at 3 p.m., followed by a reception hosted by Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services.
Baltimore City marks its tenth year of celebration with approximately twenty-five adoptions scheduled for Saturday, November 21. Judges W. Michel Pierson, Robert B. Kershaw, and Yvette M. Bryant will preside over these events starting at 10 a.m., coordinated with support from the Bar Association of Baltimore City.
Baltimore County's Circuit Court plans to finalize up to twelve adoptions on November 21 at Towson's Old Courthouse Ceremonial Courtroom starting at 11 a.m., led by Judge Sherrie R. Bailey with welcoming remarks from BCBA President-Elect Robert J. Thompson.
For further details about these events or media inquiries, contact the Maryland Judiciary Office of Communications and Public Affairs at 410-260-1488.