Malawi court to hear Madonna adoption appeal May 4

[April 20, 2009]  BLANTYRE, Malawi (AP) -- A court official says Madonna's appeal in her bid to adopt a 3-year-old girl from Malawi will be heard in May.

A judge rejected Madonna's application to adopt Chifundo "Mercy" James earlier this month, saying the pop superstar had not met residency requirements. Madonna appealed the ruling.

Court official Joseph Chigona told The Associated Press on Monday the case will come up May 4 before three Supreme Court of Appeal judges.

Madonna's Malawian lawyer, Alan Chinula, said he was hopeful the appeal will succeed. The hearing will not be in open court and Madonna is not required to be present.

Madonna already has adopted a son, David, from Malawi and still wants to adopt Mercy despite the legal setback.

[Associated Press; By RAPHAEL TENTHANI]

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