Cite as: 10 CNCA § 60.15

Upon examination of the report required in 10 CNCA § 60.13, and after hearing, the Court may issue an interlocutory decree giving the care and custody of the child to the petitioners, pending the further order of the Court. Thereafter the investigator shall observe the child in his proposed adoptive home and report in writing to the Court on any circumstances or conditions which may have a bearing on the granting of a final adoption decree. After six (6) months from the date of the interlocutory decree the petitioners may apply to the Court for a final decree of adoption. The Court shall thereupon set a time and place for final hearing. Notice of the time and date of the hearing shall be served on Cherokee Nation, in those cases where said Cherokee Nation has original custody, or the investigator. The investigator shall file with the court a written report of its findings and recommendations and certify that the required examination has been made since the granting of the interlocutory decree. After hearing on said application, at which the petitioners and the child shall appear unless the presence of the child is waived by the Court, the Court may enter a final decree of adoption, if satisfied that the adoption is for the best interests of the child.