Birth Fathers
Here are some responses to common thoughts and concerns.
- It is normal for you, like the birth mother, to experience many emotions, such as grief, denial, embarrassment and sadness.
- Supporting an adoption doesn’t portray you as weak or irresponsible.
- You may participate in making a loving plan for your child’s life.
- Supporting the birth mother’s adoption plan may be the most responsible parental decision you can make in this situation. ACF understands that making such a difficult decision takes a great deal of strength and sacrifice and we want to help support your throughout the process.
- You do not have to appear in court, if you are in agreement with the adoption plan
- You do not have to pay child support if you create/consent to the adoption plan
- Agreeing to an adoption is permanent
What are your rights as the birth father involved with placing a child for adoption?
- The right to speak to a social worker and be treated with courtesy, respect and dignity
- The right to receive services regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or disabilities or immigration status
- The right to confidentiality, unless waived or mandated otherwise by state law or directed by court order
- The right to make decisions free from coercion or pressure
- The right and responsibility to be informed about options available, and to be referred to other social service agencies for further assistance
- The right to receive counseling pre- and post-placement
- The right and responsibility to participate in choosing the adoptive parents, and to personally meet them, if desired
- The right to know and have information about the adoptive family which is known to the agency
- The right to participate in an open or closed adoption with the adoptive parents
- The right and responsibility to know state law regarding adoption
- The right and responsibility to be informed of the state adoption reunion registry and to register
- The right to participate in making a loving plan for your child’s life.
How can you develop or be involved in the adoption plan? Remember, your voice matters!!!
- Learning more about what you can do, what you’re expected to do, and what your rights are can ease much of the anxiety you’re feeling.
- Learn about the different types of adoptions (open, semi-open, closed)
- Provide family social and medical background information for the child
- Assist in choosing an adoptive family mutually agreed upon by you and the birth mother
- Choose what kind of contact you want with the adoptive family, such as receiving photos, letters, periodic emails or perhaps an annual visit with the adoptive family, all of which can be arranged through ACF. The birth mother may or may not choose to have the same kind of contact. Her choice is separate from yours.
What if I am unsure about adoption or what if I object to the adoption?
- Contact ACF and feel free to ask any and all questions.
- Only you and the birth mother have the right to decide what is in your child’s best interests
- You must take specific legal steps in a timely manner in order to establish and preserve your parental rights. An unmarried mother retains great leverage when faced with making timely and appropriate decisions regarding her future and the future of the child.
- In order for you to have a stronger influence over the adoption decision, you must be a participant and take affirmative action.
- You should seek legal counsel if you wish to contest an adoption plan, as sitting on your rights will deny you an opportunity to be heard.
How can ACF help you?
- As you decide what is best for you and your child, ACF is here to support you through the process. You can call a social worker right now to discuss your feelings, or if you wish to be involved in the adoption plan for your child. You can contact us at 305-653-2474/ toll-free 800-348-0467 or email at info@adoptionflorida.org.
- A social worker can help you understand how to support the expectant mother and how to determine the best possible choice for your child.
Birth parents typically choose adoption to give their child a better life – a life they are unable to provide at the time it is necessary to make such an important decision. Adoptive families go through a rigorous process to be approved to adopt a child. They are evaluated as to their desire and ability to properly provide the stability, love and opportunities every child deserves.
