Every baby deserves a loving home. Perhaps that home is your own. But if you are concerned that you just may not be ready to commit your life to raising another human being, you do have other options. One of them is giving the baby up for adoption. If you are wondering if adoption might be the best choice for your baby, discussing your concerns with a local attorney experienced with such matters could help you to understand what to expect.
Is Adoption the Right Choice?
If you are struggling with this decision, don’t beat yourself up too much. This is a deeply personal issue with far-reaching consequences. Is the timing right to expand your family? Do you have the emotional wherewithal to deal with the challenges ahead? Is your financial status an issue? Only you know the answers these and other questions.
Putting Together an Adoption Plan
Once a decision is made, you must begin to make plans for the coming months. Do you want to choose the adoptive parents? Do you wish to hold the baby before turning it over to new parents? You have the right to make these kinds of decisions, and your attorney can help you with necessary arrangements.
Financial Considerations
It is not uncommon for adoptive parents in Mississippi to assume all costs related to the pregnancy and birth, and all legal costs tied to the adoption. Birth mothers needn’t worry about hospital bills, maternity clothes, or living expenses, as they could all be covered in a trust held in your lawyer’s office.
Do Both Birth Parents have to Consent to the Adoption
If the birth parents disagree as to the adoption, a court will determine whether parental rights should be terminated. The birth parents will have no rights with regard to the child if or when they surrender their parental rights.
At What Point is it too late to Change my Mind?
The final paperwork surrendering the child can occur any time after at least 72 hours have passed since the birth of the child. Once those documents are signed and notarized, the adoption is irrevocable. Although the law allows a birth mother to change her mind any time up until that final signature, entering into the adoption process should not be taken lightly. Adoptive parents expecting to bring home a new baby will be crushed by a sudden change of plans.
Questions upon Questions
You likely have many more questions if you are leaning toward adoption. What criteria do you use to pick the right family for the baby? Can you have an open adoption? Can you conceal identifying information to prevent your child from finding you later in life? What if you cannot locate the biological father prior to the birth? Your attorney can answer these, and other questions. At the office of Derek L. Hall, PC, The Heavy Hitter, our experienced legal team will gently take you through the process and ensure that you fully understand what’s happening every step of the way. Contact us in Jackson today for a free, confidential consultation.
