If you are not ready to be a parent, you can still give your baby the gift of life by choosing adoption. You can plan for your baby’s future by selecting a stable, loving family to care for your baby. After birth, you can see your baby, name your baby and spend time with your [...]
Yes! Most agencies have adoptive couples who come from a variety of backgrounds, and they have been screened and approved. There are additional options such as choosing a friend, or someone who has been recommended to you. Your agency will discuss these options with you.
You may have as much contact with your baby at the hospital as you desire. When planning your child’s adoption, you can choose an open adoption plan that allows ongoing visits with your child, or you can choose a less open adoption that keeps you informed about your child’s progress through letters and photos. Adoptive [...]
The timing of your child’s placement depends on three factors:
Your preference for the timing of placement.
Legal aspects of the adoption, which may vary from state to state.
The cooperation of the birthfather.
Many birthmothers want their baby placed with the adoptive family directly from the hospital. Some women prefer to place their baby in temporary [...]
That depends on what type of adoption plan you choose; open, semi-open, or confidential. Your agency will encourage you to provide your complete medical and social history for your child, no matter what type of adoption plan you make, and in some states, that is required. You may choose to share your identity and where [...]
Both you and the birthfather have rights. If you disagree about adoption or you no longer have a relationship with him, your agency will work with the birthfather and/or the courts to determine if his rights can be terminated.
The law in your state determines when and how your child may access the information in the adoption file. Your caseworker will explain the current laws as they apply to your adoption plan.
Adoptive families approved by your agency must meet standards that are shared with you. Your agency will make every attempt to complete thorough assessment of potential adoptive families. Prior to finalizing the adoption, a caseworker will make home visits to ensure the child’s well being. In an open adoption, you will see for yourself how [...]
You do not need an attorney and there are no costs to you. The adoption agency will handle all the legal details for you and the birthfather.
Assistance with medical and living expenses is available through many agencies. For details about how your agency can help you in your particular circumstances, contact your caseworker.