Are you facing an unexpected pregnancy, unplanned pregnancy? Maybe you just not ready to parent at this time? Well, you’re not alone. We meet with and speak with women like you every day, and they have lots of questions. Below are some of the most common questions expectant mothers have about adoptive families.
If you have other questions we haven’t answered or you would like to explore the option of adoption, please text or call us at 850-308-1836. We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year. It doesn’t matter if you’re in Tallahassee, Pensacola, Panama City, Perry, Ocala or elsewhere in Florida – The Law Office of Madonna Finney is here to help.
1) Can I choose the adoptive family for my child?
Yes. You can have as little or as much involvement as you’d like in the selection of an adoptive family for your child.
In private adoption, you may discuss your individual desires for an adoptive family and pick from the many waiting, pre-screened families that have chosen to work with our firm. These desires may include religious preference, race, age, or other factors that you believe are important in your selection of the right family for you and your child.
We can provide you profiles, including photographs and information to help you select a family. Some of our waiting families are available to view here.
2) May I get to know the adoptive family?
Yes. Getting to know the adoptive family is encouraged, as it may help you feel more comfortable with your decision. You may speak with them, text with them and meet them in person. If you’d rather not meet or speak with the family, one our adoption professionals can take down some questions you have for the family and have them fill out the answers. The level of contact and how much you would like to get to know the family is completely up to you.
3) How do you screen adoptive families?
Before placement, all adoptive families must undergo an extensive homestudy process to be approved to adopt. Their homestudy must be reviewed and approved by the Court before they can adopt.
This extensive home study process includes:
Counseling and adoption education
Assessment of their home environment
Background checks, include criminal, FBI and abuse registry checks
Personal references
Assessment of their financial stability and security
Willingness to participate in post-adoption communication
After a baby or child goes home with a family, they must then undergo post-placement supervision. This ensures that the family is adjusting well and ensures the child’s well-being.
4) When will my baby be able to go to the adoptive family I choose?
Your baby can be with the adoptive family as soon as you would like. If you want the adoptive family present for birth and delivery, they can be there. After birth, they can typically have access to the child with your permission. If you don’t want to care for your baby during your hospital stay, the family can typically provide care. If you just want to visit, you can do that. If you would like to spend the hospital stay with your child, you can do that as well. It’s up to you. However, once the consent for adoption is signed, your baby will be placed with the adoptive family.
5) How will I know that my child is loved and well cared for?
Adjusting to life after placement can be challenging, but you can rest assured that your baby is in good hands because you’re the one who chose the family. Prior to placement, you’ll be able to meet with them, ask them questions and just get to know them. Getting to know the adoptive family may help you feel more confident with your decision. Also, after placement, the adoptive family will undergo post-placement supervision, which ensures the well-being of the child.
If you are considering options beyond parenting, or you’re searching for adoption agencies in Florida, Madonna and her team stand ready to assist you in any way possible. You can reach out to us 24/7 at (850) 308-1836. We work with women like you every day at no cost. There is no obligation, we will simply help you explore your options.