What You Need to Know About Adoption in Alabama
Adoption can be a complicated, yet beautiful journey. But, it’s often misunderstood. Many women facing unexpected pregnancies aren’t aware of their rights and the resources available to them through the adoption process.
In recognition of National Adoption Month, we’re shedding light on this brave and loving decision. Keep reading to learn more about adoption in Alabama!
What are the Different Types of Adoption?
In days gone by, adoption was secretive and surrounded by stigma. Birth mothers often didn’t get to maintain relationships with their children. Thankfully, these days, birth mothers can choose the type of relationship they’d like to have with their children–whether through an open, semi-open, or closed adoption.
What is Open Adoption?
In an open adoption[1], the birth mother and adoptive family can communicate freely before and after the adoption takes place. This can range from emails and texting to in-person visits, depending on how comfortable both parties are in the relationship. The adoptive family often sends pictures and letter updates every month from the beginning.
What is Semi-Open Adoption?
Semi-open adoption[1] is similar to open adoption, except that the adoption agency facilitates communication between the birth mother and adoptive family. Picture and letter updates are still given but go through the adoption agency.
What is Closed Adoption?
Closed adoption[1] or confidential adoption doesn’t allow for any communication between the birth mother and adoptive family. Neither party receives any identifying information, such as names or addresses. However, the adoptive family does receive a copy of the birth mother’s medical history so they get the appropriate care for the child if they experience any medical issues in the future.
Which Adoption Type Should I Choose?
The type of adoption you choose depends on what you believe would be best for your unique situation! However, your feelings can change through the adoption process. You may start with a semi-open adoption but later transition to an open adoption to be more connected with your child. Alternatively, you may choose to distance yourself from the child and adoptive family over time. Whatever the case may be, you are in the driver’s seat!
Can I Choose the Adoptive Family?
As the birth mother, you get to choose the kind of family you’d like to give to your child. Your adoption agency may provide profiles of potential families that you can explore. You can select the ideal family based on any combination of factors, such as where they live, their religious views, lifestyle and hobbies, and more!
Once you’ve made your selection, the potential adoptive family completes a criminal background check and a home study to assess their ability to care for the child. The home study process consists of at least one visit to the home, individual interviews with the adoptive family members and at least two references, and adoption training[2].
The home study is a thorough process that ensures the child is placed in a stable and loving environment, with a family that can meet their every need!
Do Birth Mothers Get Paid for Adoption?
While you can’t get paid to place your child for adoption[3], the adoptive family may be able to cover some of your expenses through the adoption process! This includes any maternity, prenatal, medical, and legal fees incurred during pregnancy[4]. An adoption professional can help the adoptive family determine what financial assistance they are able to provide to you!
Can I Change My Mind About the Adoption?
As mentioned earlier, you’re completely in control of your adoption plan, and that includes canceling it. You have the right to change your mind about the adoption at any point during your pregnancy! After the child has been born, Alabama adoption law gives you five days to decide whether or not you’d like to finalize the adoption[2].
It’s important to reexamine your feelings throughout the adoption process. If you think you may want to parent instead, speak to your caseworker! They will remind you of your rights as the birth mother and help you to speak up for yourself!
Adoption Resources in Huntsville, AL
Whether you’re considering adoption in Alabama or simply want to learn more, the compassionate team at HPRC is here for you! We are happy to answer your questions, so you can decide if adoption is the right choice for your future. No commitment, no judgment, just confidential and compassionate care.
Give us a call at (256) 462-8598 or schedule your free appointment today!
Sources
Could Open Adoption be the Best Choice for You and Your Baby? Child Welfare Information Gateway. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubPDFs/openadoption.pdf
Adoption in Alabama. Considering Adoption. (2021, April 21). Retrieved from https://consideringadoption.com/adoptions-by-state/how-to-adopt-in-alabama/
Regulation of Private Domestic Adoption Expenses. Child Welfare Information Gateway. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubPDFs/expenses.pdf
Birth Mother Expenses By State. Texas Adoption Center. (2021, February 24). Retrieved from https://www.texasadoptioncenter.org/blog/birth-mother-expenses-by-state/