The Birth Mother
As a birth mother you have the right:
- to participate in all phases of the adoption planning.
- to make decisions concerning adoption without obligation. (No pressures or coercion)
- to request financial assistance, within the limits of the law, for adoption and pregnancy related expenses; such as medical care, maternity clothes, housing, transportation and counseling services.
- to select the family who will raise your child, if you so choose. This includes the right to non-identifying information about them:
Age
Race, religion, ethnic background
General physical appearance
Education, occupation, hobbies, interests, talents,
Any other children born or adopted
Any information the family wishes to share
- to a written explanation of your legal rights and responsibilities.
- to ongoing support throughout the adoption process and following the birth of the baby.
- to be treated with dignity and respect for your selfless and loving decision by all parties involved.
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The Birth Father
The father of a child also has rights.
In the State of Illinois a birth mother will be asked to name the father of the child if she is considering adoption. He will be contacted. He can meet with a caseworker to discuss his options.
- He has the right to sign A Denial of Paternity, stating he does not believe he is the father of the child.
- He has the right to sign A Irrevocable Surrender for The Purpose of Adoption, if he believes he is the father and agrees that adoption is the best decision for his child.
- He has the right to seek legal counsel and determine if he can receive custody of the child.
If he does not do any of the above, cannot be found, or is uncooperative, his legal rights, and the legal rights of any unknown father will be terminated in court when the adoption is completed.
If a birth mother decides to parent the child the father is responsible for child support. Usually she will go to court and file a petition asking for support. It is treated much like a divorce case, with support and visitation decided through the courts.
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Domestic Adoptions
International Adoptions
Home Study Process
Home Study Fees
Post Placement Policies
Option Of Love - Video
Current Adoption Statistics
Housing For Pregnant Women
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