In a private placement adoption, the birth parent places the child directly with the adoptive parent(s) without an agency acting as an intermediary. As the name suggests, the parties located one another directly, most frequently through connections made by family members and friends or through advertisements they’ve placed on the internet. The information that’s 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. Anyone undertaking a private placement adoption should work with attorneys with specific experience in this type of adoption.
Private placement adoption is attractive because it avoids the cost of an agency fee and can sometimes happen quickly and inexpensively. Don’t worry that you’ll be on your own because your attorney should guide you through every legal step in the process. Some people prefer private placement adoption because it provides the opportunity for you to have more control over the process – if you prefer a more “hands on” approach. The cost of a private placement adoption varies greatly but is generally between $25,000 and $50,000, not counting the cost associated with any required advertising or outreach.
You should consult with an experienced adoption attorney before undertaking the private adoption process. Adoptions are highly regulated and your failure to comply with the technical adoption requirements can jeopardize the security of your adoption, even after the child has been placed in your home.
The first step involves creating an introductory letter and an adoption profile, as a way for you to introduce yourself to a pregnant woman considering 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.
Typically, after the initial connection is made, you and the potential birth parent(s) will take some time to get to know one another. This communication takes place either through e-mail or by phone but, depending on the circumstances, you can also meet with one another in person. It’s a good idea for you to let your attorney know that you’re in communication with a potential birth parent so that the attorney can alert you to any potential legal risks. Once you and the birth parent(s) choose to pursue an adoption plan together, the birth parent(s) should meet with independent legal counsel who will advise them regarding the legal process and provide them with the support services they require to make a knowing and voluntary adoption plan. Your attorney should also seek 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 work collaboratively to ensure that the adoption plan is secure and meets the needs of the child, the adoptive parents, and the birth parent(s).
Rumbold & Seidelman has worked in the field of adoption law since 1996 and we have the experience gained from having guided our clients through this complex process. Should you choose to retain our legal services we can assist you in the following ways:
