Rule 110.Findings of the Court.
Current through July 1, 2026 · Last verified September 11, 2026
Full Text of Rule 110
Amendment History
The Hawaiʻi State Judiciary’s compiled text of this rule carries no amendment order for this rule. For the adopting orders and any later amendments, see the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary’s rules page.
Plain-English Summary
One sentence, and it opens by displacing the general rule. Notwithstanding Rule 52, written findings of fact and conclusions of law shall be entered in each adoption case following the hearing.
Rule 52 makes findings optional in the ordinary case, requiring them only once a notice of appeal is filed. Adoption is different because the decree changes a legal relationship permanently and the record has to show why.
Either the court or the attorney for the petitioners may prepare them. Rule 112 then makes the attorney responsible for helping the petitioners obtain the amended birth certificate and for distributing copies of the findings, conclusions and decree where the court authorizes it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are findings required in a Hawaii adoption?
Yes. Written findings of fact and conclusions of law shall be entered in each case following the hearing, notwithstanding Rule 52.
Who prepares the findings?
The court, or the attorney for the petitioner or petitioners.
Why is adoption different from other cases?
Rule 52 makes findings optional in the ordinary case until a notice of appeal is filed. Rule 110 requires them in every adoption.
What happens to the findings after the decree?
Rule 112(b) lets the court authorize issuance of copies of the findings, conclusions and decree for immigration, naturalization, allotment and other valid purposes.
Who gets the amended birth certificate?
Rule 112(a) makes it the attorney responsibility to assist the petitioners in obtaining it.