What is the legal process?
Before your baby is born, a knowledgeable counselor will make sure you understand all of your legal rights and take all precautions necessary to ensure your baby’s adoption is handled correctly. We also will refer you to a legal adviser, if requested. When you’re discharged from the hospital, legal forms consenting to the placement and adoption of the baby will be signed. Your counselor, along with our attorney, will file the legal forms with the court. A judge takes the legal action to terminate your parental rights so the adoption can be finalized. You will have the option of not appearing in court.
Do I have to involve the baby’s father?
The birth father and/or legal father of your child should be part of the process. Having all relevant parties participate ensures the placement is safe and legal. We understand that sometimes this involvement needs to be handled separately and privately. We will handle all of the legal paperwork with the birth father in collaboration with our attorney. Remember, vital health information about your child can be learned when the father joins in the adoption plan. This may be critically important to the baby as he or she grows up.
How much will my baby know about me when he or she grows up?
How much he or she knows depends a lot on you. We encourage you to pass your medical and cultural history on to your child. You may also wish to share your identity with the adoptive family and even request periodic updates, with letters and pictures exchanged through CHS. We will always protect your identity from the adoptive family and any others based on your wishes.
When is my decision final?
Under Florida law, a woman can change her mind at any time before she signs the consent for adoption paperwork. After the baby is born, we will wait 48 hours or until you are medically cleared to be discharged from the hospital before any paperwork is signed. Your counselor will review all of the legal forms with you and will only take your signatures if you are confident with your decision of adoption.
Are you the father and want more information too?
Click here for information specifically for fathers.