Adoption Pathways

AGENCY ADOPTIONS

An agency that handles adoption services is a state-licensed agency that employs trained professionals to work with both birth parents and adoptive parents. In fulfilling their mission, they are dedicated to having the best interests of both parties in mind. Agencies very often provide a wide range of services including counseling and support for birth mothers, preparing adoption home studies, and matching adoptive families with expectant mothers, along with an array of other pre- and post-placement services. There is usually not a cost to the birth mother.

Always verify if an agency is state-licensed and beware of any agency that is not licensed.

ATTORNEYS

Attorneys who specialize in adoptions are experts in adoption law in the states in which they practice. Other attorneys may take on an adoption case as a courtesy based upon an existing relationship or a personal referral. In the event of the latter, it is important for you to obtain full assurance the adoption legal work will meet all existing state laws and required regulations.

An adoption attorney likely has current connections with prospective adoptive parents. Other attorneys may not. However, in some instances a birth mother has secured prospective adoptive parents on her own.

When speaking with an attorney, ask up front about all of the fees involved. Do they have a consultation fee, a retainer, a set rate or do they bill by the hour? Ask if it is possible to arrange for the adoptive family to pay part or all of the legal fees.

To decide if infant adoption is right for you, speaking with one or more adoption professionals will help you to gather information that will assist you in your decision making. Speaking with an adoption professional does not obligate you to place your child for adoption, and there should be no fees involved.

Guide to Decision Making

Whether you decide upon an agency or an attorney, consider taking the following steps to help you cross over the bridge:

Online is a good place to start exploring resources.
Do your research and be thorough.
Determine which adoption experts are offering the kind of services and expertise you need.
Put together a list of questions you would like to have answered.
Be prepared to take notes.
Ask yourself who made you feel comfortable and confident.
Did they provide you all the information you were seeking and more?
Did they respond to your phone call right away?
Did they seem to take a personal interest in you?
Trust your intuition in making the right decision about who can best assist you.

Questions & Answers