Adoption

When faced with an unexpected pregnancy, some women consider adoption as an alternative to abortion.  Mothers considering adoption deserve to know the facts about the process so they can make an informed choice. Here we will explore: open adoption, semi-open adoption, closed adoption, infant surrender and some other related topics. PSC is not an adoption agency, but we are here to support you and to help you as you consider an adoption journey. Make an appointment today! 

Empowering birth parents with choices

Biological mothers have the right to decide for themselves whether to pursue creating an adoption plan for their baby and if they do opt to pursue an adoption, which type of adoption is right for them and their child. When creating an adoption plan, mothers have a right to help from a social worker who can assist in navigating the adoption system. Carroll County’s Department of Social Services can be contacted here. 

Infant Surrender

Infant surrender exists for mothers in crisis.  Unexpected births or dangerous situations can arise in which the mother seeks to anonymously surrender her child. In Maryland, parents have 10 days from birth to invoke “Safe Haven” laws. A parent in distress can leave an unharmed infant with a responsible person at locations such as hospitals or law enforcement offices without risk of civil or criminal penalties. Safe Haven zones for Maryland are listed here. All states have similar Safe Haven or infant surrender laws. Some locations even have special baby boxes in which you can place the baby.  Authorities will be alerted when the box is closed, ensuring that the baby is immediately cared for. No mother ever has to abandon her infant in a crisis.  Safe Haven laws provide the opportunity for a mother to place the child in a secure location where it will be cared for and safe.

Open Adoption 

An open adoption is an adoption in which the birth mother (or parents) and the adoptive family share information with each other. Open adoptions can be highly customizable and allow the birth mother to create an adoption plan that reflects her desires for her child and helps her feel in control of the adoption process. Semi-open adoption is another option which offers a hybrid of both open and closed adoption. As the biological mother, it is important to understand that you have options and control when it comes to designing an adoption plan for your child. Adoption agencies exist to help both biological and adoptive parents reach a safe, legal arrangement that fosters transparency and connection, empowering birth parents with choices regarding their lives. 

Can I put my baby up for adoption without the father’s consent?

In Maryland, the birth father must agree to an adoption unless his rights have been legally terminated by the courts. Because of the complex legal nature of adoption, it is important to work with an attorney and/or a reputable adoption agency when creating an adoption plan. 

Is Adoption Expensive?

Many women considering adoption are concerned about the cost. Is adoption free? How much will it cost me? Agencies or adoptive families often assist the biological mother in accessing prenatal care and easing the overall financial burdens associated with pregnancy. The legal fees and expenses of the adoption process are most commonly paid by either the adoption agency or the adoptive family, not the biological mother. It is important to remember that every adoption is different and it is important to ask questions and understand your options before you decide. If you are considering creating an adoption plan, schedule an appointment with PSC today.  We can provide important information and resources to help you determine your next steps. 

Closed Adoption

In a closed adoption, an adoption agency matches a birth mother with a family who is also seeking a closed adoption. The agency acts as a mediator between the two families, and they do not have direct contact. After the adoption process is completed, the adoption records are sealed, and are only accessible under certain conditions. Some people prefer this type of adoption, as it maintains the most privacy for all involved. 

Special Circumstances

The Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act of 1980 guides local social services to best protect and support children and families.  Maryland is a kin-first state, which means if the state decides a child needs out-of-home care (also known as foster care), social workers will try to identify and safely place a child in need with his or her closest relatives in order to support familial bonds.   Sometimes, children are adopted because reunification with the parents is deemed unsafe. Sometimes, parents agree to give legal parenting rights to another adult or couple. Many parents work with adoption agencies to help them with the process. 

Compassionate guidance every step of the way

If you’d like to learn more about adoption, schedule an appointment with PSC.