What are the legal rights of adopted children?

Adopted children in Washington are legally recognized as if they were born to the adoptive parents. This means the adopted children have the same rights and responsibilities as a natural-born child. Adopted children have the right to inherit from their adoptive parents and other family members related to their adoptive parents. The adopted children are also considered part of the adoptive family with regards to health insurance and other benefits. This means they are entitled to the same coverage and benefits as their natural-born siblings. Adopted children also have the right to know their legal family history, which includes their birth parents’ identity and medical history. Adopted children are entitled to the same protection of the law as any other child and can seek the advice of an attorney in any matter relating to their legal rights. Adopted children also have the right to request to have their adopted name legally changed. This can be done through an adoption case with the court or through the State Registrar of Vital Statistics. Adopted children have the right to education and care as if they were a natural-born child. They also have the right to seek out and access mental health and other services as any other child. Finally, adopted children have the right to make decisions about their own life, such as choosing religion or where they want to live. They cannot be forced to participate in activities they do not want to participate in, nor can they be forced to follow their adoptive parents’ religious beliefs.

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What are the legal rights of adopted children?

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