Domestic Private Adoption

Private placement adoption is accomplished when a birth parent places the child directly with the adoptive parent(s) without an agency acting as an intermediary. As the name suggests, the parties to the adoption have located each other and determined that they wish to make an adoption plan together. Adoptive parents and birth parents learn of each other in many ways, including: connections through family and friends and advertising on the internet. The information that is exchanged between birth parents and adoptive parents allows everyone to make an informed choice. Although information is exchanged, confidentiality can still be maintained; last names, addresses and identifying information are only disclosed as desired. The assistance of an attorney with expertise in the area of adoption is highly recommended and often required in this type of adoption. Private placement adoption is attractive because it avoids the cost of an agency fee, and can sometimes happen very quickly and inexpensively. The cost of a private placement adoption can vary greatly, but is generally between $25,000 and $35,000, not counting the cost associated with any required advertising or outreach.

FAQ

How do I get started once I decide to proceed with private placement adoption?

How do adoptive parents make contact with expectant parents seeking to place their child(ren) for adoption?

The first step in identifying an adoptive child typically involves creating an introductory letter and an adoption profile, which serves as a way for the adoptive parent(s) to introduce themselves to a parent considering placing his or her child for adoption. Many adoptive parents display their profiles on adoption websites, advertise in newspapers, and send out bulk networking letters (typically by e-mail) to extended family and friends. All of these activities should be undertaken in consultation with your attorney to ensure that they are legal, effective and that your need for privacy is adequately protected.

What happens after I make contact with a potential birth parent?

Typically, after the initial connection is made, there is a period of time during which the adoptive parent(s) and potential birth parent(s) get to know one another. This communication takes place either through e-mail or by phone but, depending on the circumstances, the parties can also choose to meet personally. It is advisable for the adoptive parents to immediately inform their attorney that they are in communication with a potential birth parent so that the attorney can advise them and alert them to any potential risks. Once you and the birth parent(s) choose to pursue an adoption plan, it is advisable for the birth parent(s) to meet with independent legal counsel. The birth parent(s)’ attorney can advise them regarding the legal aspects of the process to ensure that their decision to place their child for adoption is knowing and voluntary and to explore whether there are any legal impediments to the adoption plan. At that point, your attorney should undertake to obtain all available prenatal records as well as a social/medical history from the birth parent(s). Your attorney and the birth parent(s)’ attorney should communicate directly to review all aspects of the adoption plan with the goal of ensuring that the adoption plan is secure and meets the needs of the child, the adoptive parents, and the birth parent(s).

How can Rumbold & Seidelman help?

Rumbold & Seidelman has advised many hundreds of clients in this process. We work closely with you and can assist you in the following ways:

To become qualified as an adoptive parent
Advise you on how to create a networking campaign to locate a child to be placed with you
Obtain background and medical information to allow you to make an informed and secure adoption plan
Consult with the attorney for the birth parent(s) to address financial and legal aspects of the adoption
Prepare and submit all required documentation and papers for the finalization of the adoption in court