Adoption With The Birth Father in Mind

 

Often, a birth father’s role is overlooked or forgotten in the adoption process. Learn more about how, when and why to include your baby’s father when you’re considering adoption.

As a birth mother, it’s essential to understand how the father of your baby can be involved when you choose adoption. A Guardian Angel is here to help you find the best ways to include him in this process.

A Birth Father’s Rights

There are two main categories that birth fathers usually fall under: presumed or alleged. A presumed father is generally married to the birth mother (or was within 300 days of the baby’s birth) or a man who has claimed responsibility for the baby. An alleged father is someone who is not married to the birth mother and has not taken a paternity test.

The rights of birth fathers vary widely from state to state and depend on whether the father is presumed or alleged. A presumed father may need to sign over his parental rights, but almost all birth fathers are entitled to receive notice that the adoption is taking place even if there is no other involvement from them.

Should You Tell Him?

Because of his rights as a birth parent, it’s nearly always best to tell the father of your baby about the pregnancy and your plans for adoption. There have been cases where the birth father discovered the mother’s decision and ended up claiming his parental rights after the adoption had already been finalized. Telling your baby’s father ahead of the process will prevent this from happening.

There are a few instances where not immediately telling the birth father about the pregnancy and adoption is for the best. If he presents any threat of dangerous or violent behavior, it’s wise to proceed with caution and get the help you need to handle the situation.

Agreeing on What’s Best for Your Baby

There’s a misconception that all birth fathers don’t care about their children—but that’s not always true. Many of these men care deeply and would like a say in planning their baby’s future by helping choose the adoptive parents.

If the father of your baby wants to be part of the adoption process, the next step for you both is to decide on an open, semi-open or closed adoption. This allows you to choose the amount of contact you would like to maintain with your baby and the adoptive parents during and after the adoption.

You’re Never Alone With A Guardian Angel

Every relationship between birth parents is different, but A Guardian Angel is here to help you make the best decisions for everyone involved.

Whether you’re considering adoption as a couple or by yourself, A Guardian Angel has the resources to make this process go as smoothly and easily as possible. Let us help you take the first steps to giving your baby a bright future.