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Virginia Court Rules Marine Couple Can Keep Adopted Afghan Orphan

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Virginia Supreme Court ruled a U.S. Marine and his wife may keep the Afghan orphan they adopted.
The decision came despite a U.S. government move to reunite her with her Afghan family.
The court reversed lower rulings that had deemed the adoption flawed.
Virginia law prevents challenges to adoptions after six months, if obtained through misleading claims.
Dissenting justices criticized the adoption process and highlighted the Masts' alleged dishonesty.

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Story summary

The Virginia Supreme Court ruled a U.S. Marine and his wife may keep the Afghan orphan they adopted.
The decision came despite a U.S. government move to reunite her with her Afghan family.
The court reversed lower rulings that had deemed the adoption flawed.
Virginia law prevents challenges to adoptions after six months, if obtained through misleading claims.
Dissenting justices criticized the adoption process and highlighted the Masts' alleged dishonesty.