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Geoff & Liz
My husband, my son, and I want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for providing such a wonderful and affordable opportunity to make adoption connections. After several contacts and a complete turn-around in our attitude toward open adoption, we were able to match with a loving family who have made our dreams of having a little girl come to life. Our family is now complete! Who could more ...
As you progress through the placement process, you'll discover that there's a lot to know and understand about the law, as it pertains to your situation. Firstly, it's important to know that each state has differing laws, guidelines, and regulations when it comes to adoption. Before you begin your placement journey, check with your specific state and see which laws will affect your situation and your adoption plan. Throughout this section you'll find the following pages:
Adoption Expenses: In many states there is a fine line between paying for expenses and paying the mother for her child. While it's illegal to pay for another human being, paying for a mother's adoption expenses is usually acceptable. Adoption expenses can include lawyer or agency fees and pre and post-adoption counseling. However, remember that each adoption relationship is different and not every adoptive parent will pay for adoption expenses of the mother and father. Before you agree with any adoption contract, make sure everyone involved is on the same page.
Birth Expenses: Birth expenses are some of the most expensive. This is especially true if you don't have insurance. Birth expenses include fees for doctor visits, labor and delivery, hospital stays, tests and labs, and any related complications. Some adoption agencies and adoptive parents will agree to pay birth expenses, as to lessen the burden on the birth mother and father.
Living Expenses: Many adoptive families and agencies will agree to pay living expenses, including rent, transportation, food, clothing, and utilities. This usually lasts until the child is delivered and placed with the adoptive parents. However, remember that it is unacceptable to be paid any more than expenses for placing your child.
Termination of Parental Rights: When it comes to the termination of parental rights, making an informed decision is crucial. Any time before you terminate your parental rights, you can change your mind and decide to parent your child. Remember that. However, after your rights have been terminated, that's it; the parental rights are given to the adoptive parents.
Revocation Period: Each state has its own laws concerning revocation periods. A revocation period is the timeframe given to those placing that let's them change their minds. Sometimes it is 72 hours and sometimes it is a week. Take your revocation period to think about your decision and how it affects you. Use this time to re-decide. If you want to parent your child, you have that choice.
Adoption Finalization: Adoption finalization is a process. There is paperwork, court dates, and sometimes appeals. The adoption finalization process is when the mother and father's rights are terminated and parental rights are given to the adoptive parents. During this time, make sure to have an adoption lawyer representing you and your best interest.
The Law and Open Adoption Agreements: When deciding which type of adoption you'd prefer, remember that when it comes to an open adoption, creating an agreement is common. However, when it comes to the law and open adoption agreements, they don't always stand strong. Firstly, everything in the agreement must be legal. Just because both parties agree on it doesn't make it legal or enforceable.
Safe Haven/Baby Moses Laws: Many states have some form of the Safe Haven or Baby Moses laws. These laws allow parents to leave their children at police or fire stations or other sanctioned places without punishment or questions. These laws were created to ensure the health and wellbeing of unwanted children.
Knowing your state's laws is crucial to having a successful placement. It's also a way to protect yourself and to ensure your child is placed with the right family. Do what you can to make an informed decision and know and understand your rights thoroughly.
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