There are two main types of adoption: open and closed. In a closed adoption, the baby is placed with an adoptive family soon after birth, and the biological mother has no further contact with the child. The child typically does not know the identity of his or her birth parents, and adoption records are strictly confidential until the child turns 18.
In an open adoption, the birth mother and adoptive family have an ongoing relationship. The birth mother may have occasional in-person visits with the child and/or receive photos and updates from the adoptive parents. Open adoption has become common in recent years, and birth mothers have the right to negotiate about openness with potential adoptive families.
How do I know that the adoption agency or attorney I’m working with is legitimate? Some entities, called “adoption facilitators,” match babies with adoptive families without providing any legal services. Adoption facilitators are illegal in the state of Florida. To make sure that you have selected a legitimate, licensed adoption practitioner and not a facilitator, contact the Florida Adoption Council.
How do I choose my baby’s adoptive parents? When you visit an adoption agency, you will be presented with profiles of families who have been approved to adopt. Think about the qualities that you want your child’s adoptive family to have, and narrow down the list of potential families based on these qualities. Don’t hesitate to ask questions! Some possible considerations include: -Parenting style -Religious beliefs and moral values -Family structure (number of children, relationships with extended family, etc.) -Length of marriage -How the couple deals with disagreements -Financial circumstances If your heart is set on a family that does not live in the Miami area, many agencies can accommodate adoptions across county or state lines.
So if I’m leaning toward adoption, where do I go? The non-profit clinics listed on the home page offer adoption counseling and referrals. Respect Life of the Archdiocese of Miami, on 9360 Sunset Drive, provides adoption support to both Catholics and non-Catholics. Also, check out Birth Mother Resources and adoption myths.
