“Christmas came a little early for me this year when I became part of a beautiful adoption story. Our firm was privileged to represent Lindsay and Paul Barnett, in Lindsay’s adoption of her three stepchildren, Eva (7), Asher (8) and Isaac (13). As Paul told the probate judge on the day of the final adoption hearing on December 19th, they were there to formalize what had been a reality in their home for the past three years after Lindsay and Paul married in November of 2020.
All three children were present and filled with excited anticipation, along with Paul’s mother and several out-of-state family and friends of the Barnetts who were unable to attend in person, but were allowed to witness the occasion via a Zoom video call, with the consent of the probate judge, making the day even more special for the Barnetts and their family.
It’s always a joy to be part of an adoption ceremony, but this one became even more moving, when I asked the judge if Lindsay could share her adoption story, which involved her best friend, whose mother also graciously attended the hearing.
Here is her story as I recall it:
Lindsay grew up in Nebraska and moved to Alabama in 2013. She met Lynn, who was then married to Paul. Lynn became the mom of three beautiful young children. Unfortunately, Lynn was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer in 2018. As close friends do, Lindsay walked with Lynn through her battle, supporting and encouraging her every step of the way. Lynn fought valiantly, but sadly passed away in 2019. The children were only 2, 3, and 8 years old at the time.
As the Bible says, “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” (Prov. 16:9, NLT). After Lynn passed, the Lord’s sovereign hand of grace began to work in surprising ways, as it often does, and Lindsay and Paul began to build a relationship and eventually married. Lindsay became a wife and a mom for the first time on the same day, and there was a family of five once again. Never could Lindsay have imagined that the first time she became a mom, it would be to her dear friend’s children!
Showing her and her family’s support, Lynn’s mother attended the adoption hearing on December 19th, flying in from out-of-state. She participated in the adoption hearing with joy and tears as she witnessed the formal legal adoption of her grandchildren by one of her daughter’s best friends. If there was a portal to view this from heaven, I can only imagine Lynn’s joyous celebration.
As an old prosecutor, I’ve seen tears of pain in the courtroom where stories of tragic crimes and events were told. Very rarely have I seen tears of joy. And never in my 30 years of practicing law, have I experienced the kind of joy in a courtroom that made my eyes swell with tears. December 5th was the first time, as I heard Lindsay tell this adoption story to the Judge and honor the Lord who was at work through it all. I’ve never been more grateful to be part of a court proceeding, even while playing such an insignificant role in it.”
Mother and Daughter: Official At Last!
