How to Adopt a Child Independently

When you adopt independently, you do not retain the services of an agency.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Adoption Announcements
• Attorney

1. Locate a birth mother who would be willing to place her baby up for adoption. You may do this through an attorney or doctor, by advertising in the newspaper where legal, or by sending information about yourself to pregnancy crisis centers, obstetricians or others who may be able to help you.
2. Expect to pay for all of the birth mother's medical and legal expenses related to the pregnancy, birth and adoption. You may also have to pay for her living expenses.
3. Consider an investment in counseling for the birth mother - even in states where it's not required.
4. Understand that adoption organizations recommend that you pay for a separate attorney for the birth mother or birth parents so their rights can be best represented at all times during the process.
5. Consult with the birth mother to come up with a contract regarding what contact will be allowed with the child after the adoption.

Tips & Warnings

• It's easiest - and less complicated legally - to adopt within your state of residence. If you do go out of state to adopt, obtain and read a copy of the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children.
• If you choose a birth mother whose pregnancy is covered by health insurance, your costs will be less.
• Independent adoptions are subject to state laws. It may be necessary for you to hire a competent adoption attorney to be sure you understand the particular laws of your state.
• Your chance of legal complications is greater in independent adoption than in adoption through an agency.