Adoption by biological parent helps child gain legal legitimacy

In the article published on 2 November 2025 in The Straits Times, titled “Unwed mother adopts her own daughter, so toddler doesn’t grow up as an illegitimate child,” it was reported that more unwed mothers in Singapore are choosing to adopt their own children. The aim: to secure legal rights for the child, remove the label of “illegitimacy,” and sever ties with a biological father who may be absent or non‑supportive.

According to the article, the adoption route grants inheritance rights, clarifies legal parent‑child relationships, and addresses the social stigma associated with being born out of wedlock.

Ms. Gloria James‑Civetta, head of Gloria James‑Civetta & Co., explained that one major driver for such adoptions is the inheritance issue:

Without a will, an illegitimate child has no automatic right to inherit from his or her father’s estate and may only inherit from their mother if she has no legitimate children.

She further added that the stigma of illegitimacy, which is rooted in historical law and social norms, motivates some parents to seek adoption as a means of giving their child full legal legitimacy and signalling to society that “we are a real family.”

At GJC Law, we guide you through every step of the adoption process — from preparing the necessary documentation, liaising with the Guardian in Adoption, to securing the Adoption Order from the Court. Our goal is to ensure that your child’s legal status and future are fully protected.

We support parents exploring adoption as part of their broader family restructuring and are committed to safeguarding the legal interests of children and families navigating complex issues such as parentage, inheritance, and custody.

Please contact Gloria James-Civetta & Co. at +65 6337 0469 or email us at consult@gjclaw.com.sg

Source: www.straitstimes.com