Open and semi-open adoption make up the majority of adoptions today. These adoption plans allow the expectant mother or birth mother the opportunity to decide how much contact, if at all, she wants with her child and their adoptive family.
To learn more about adoption or to get referrals to reputable, licensed adoption agencies, reach out to First Choice Georgia.
How Can I Communicate With My Child?
When you work with an adoption coordinator, such as an adoption agency, they will help you select the adoptive family that will raise your child. You can review bios of qualified adoptive couples ready to love and care for your child.
You choose the couple that wants to have the same amount of contact as you. Although meeting one another can be awkward, a qualified adoption agency helps you build trust and a solid relationship.
A semi-open adoption plan lets you communicate with the family through the agency, providing more privacy for everyone. You can write each other letters, communicate through email, or even meet in person. Everything goes through the agency first.
An open adoption plan means you and the adoptive couple you choose communicate directly with each other. There is no right or wrong plan. You choose the plan that you are most comfortable with.
Do I Have Any Rights as the Expectant Mother or Birth Mother?
You are in the driver’s seat when choosing an adoption plan. The following are the rights you have as a mother choosing to place her child for adoption:
- Receive a thorough explanation of the adoption plans and your state’s adoption laws.
- Choose the adoption plan that meets your needs for communication with your child: open, semi-open, or closed.
- Pay nothing for adoption services.
- Receive all medical and legal expenses free of charge.
- Select the adoptive family that most closely matches your desires for your child.
- If possible, receive payment for other pregnancy-related expenses according to your state’s laws.
- Be free from manipulation or coercion to choose adoption for your child.
- Receive counseling before, during, and after the finalization of the adoption.
- The right to change your mind anytime during the process until you sign the legal Consent to Adoption forms.
Is Open Adoption Like Co-Parenting?
By choosing a reputable, licensed adoption agency, you should receive a thorough explanation of the adoption process. Adoption is not the same as co-parenting. When an adoption is finalized, you completely transfer your parental rights and responsibilities to the adoptive couple.
You and the adoptive couple you choose can create a post-adoption contact agreement that outlines the wishes of all parties regarding contact after the adoption is finalized. For example, if you wish for more privacy, that can be outlined in the agreement. Or, if you prefer more communication and possible visitation, that can also be included.
Get Adoption Information From First Choice Georgia
Although we are not a child-placing agency, we can provide more adoption information and referrals for reputable agencies in our area. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and are unsure what to do, we can also discuss your options.
Come to First Choice Georgia for free and confidential pregnancy services. We understand the challenge you’re facing and are here to provide the support and assistance you need.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment today. We’re here for you.
