Author: Josh W

Creating an adoption plan may seem overwhelming, but a thoughtful plan is vital to your peace of mind that your selected adoptive family aligns with your hopes and expectations for your child. A planned adoption process is designed to ensure that your child’s future is secure and that your child will grow up in a loving and supportive environment consistent with your values. An adoption plan can help make the transition smoother for you, your baby, and the adoptive family.

Adoption is a deeply personal journey that is unique to each parent. Taking time to craft a thoughtful adoption plan will help you clearly and accurately articulate your needs, desires, and expectations. At Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., we understand that this process is emotional and complex, and we strive to provide you guidance and support every step of the way.

What is an Adoption Plan?

An adoption plan is a roadmap that outlines how you want the adoption process to unfold. An adoption plan helps ensure that your wishes for your child are clearly communicated and honored. Through an adoption plan, you can detail all aspects of your adoption journey from the type of family you wish for your child to the level of contact you would like to have with the adoptive family and your child before, during and after your placement.

A comprehensive adoption plan also serves as a guide for the adoptive family, the adoption agency, and other entities involved in your adoption process. A plan should encapsulate your vision regarding the adoptive family’s role during the birth, placement and transition of your child and will help you prepare for the emotional experience of an adoption placement.  It is a thoughtful and considerate process that requires careful deliberation and the courage. Most importantly, a comprehensive plan places you in charge of your adoption, incorporates your values, beliefs and allows you to have a significant role in shaping your child’s future.

 

While creating an adoption plan, you have the autonomy to express your preferences to ensure your plan reflects your courage and commitment to a secure, loving future for your child.

What Should I Consider When Making My Adoption Plan?

Several critical factors should be considered when drafting an adoption plan. One primary consideration is what level of open communication you would like to have with the adoptive family and your child such as an open, semi open, or closed adoption best meets you and your child’s interests. An open adoption allows you to maintain contact with your child and the adoptive family through a range of options such as scheduled in-person visits, phone calls, videos, or letters.  Aa semi-open adoption involves limited contact through written updates and pictures.  A closed adoption involves no contact after the adoption.  The concept of openness in your adoption is fluid and we recommend that you work with an adoption professional when considering all your options.

Identify the characteristics you want in your selected adoptive family.  You should consider facts to look for such as their values, lifestyle, education, and other children in the home. Preferences such as religious or cultural background, or the geographical location of the family maybe significant to your selection.

A detailed hospital “birth” plan is essential to ensure your wishes are respected during this sensitive time.  A birth plan should include your preferences on who is present when you deliver your child, the interactions with the adoptive parents at the hospital, and the time that you spend with your baby after birth.

Your emotional well-being is the most important element of any adoption plan. Adoption is a significant decision that can carry emotional ramifications. Make sure you have a support system in place, whether it’s family, friends, or a counselor.

Do You Have Questions About Your Adoption Plan?

Navigating through the adoption process and creating an adoption plan may feel overwhelming. The attorneys at Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. are here to guide you through this process. Whether you need assistance in creating your adoption plan or have general questions about adoption, we’re here to help.

Our team is committed to maintaining your privacy. We assure you that all conversations are strictly confidential and treated with the utmost respect. You can feel comfortable discussing your hopes, fears, and questions with us, knowing that we are here to provide answers and guidance.

You are not alone in this journey. Let us stand by your side, providing legal guidance and emotional support as you make the best decisions for you and your baby. The team at Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. is dedicated to helping birth mothers navigate the adoption process with knowledge, confidence, and compassion. We welcome the opportunity to assist you during this significant time in your life.

If you are pregnant and considering placing your child for adoption, we are here to assist. As experts in Florida adoption law, Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. can help you navigate the complexities of the adoption process, answer your questions and provide support and guidance along the way.

When considering an adoption placement, parents frequently ask whether they can make an adoption plan after their baby’s birth.  This answer is YES.   Every woman’s situation is unique, and we understand that making decisions about an adoption placement of your child may not always align with the expected timelines.  We encourage every parent to take their time to fully consider their options and only proceed with an adoption plan when they are certain an adoption placement is the best decision for them and their baby.

Whether you are well into your pregnancy, in the hospital after delivery, or taking care of your newborn at home, it is never too late to ask questions and seek professional advice. We are here to reassure you that Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. is committed to helping you find the best possible future for both you and your baby, regardless of your decision.

Can I Create an Adoption Plan After My Baby is Born?

The answer to this important question is a definitive yes. While many birth mothers elect to establish an adoption plan during pregnancy, some women decide on adoption after the birth of their child. A decision to start an adoption plan after their child’s birth may happen for a variety of reasons, and it is essential to know that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to adoption.

Post-birth adoption plans are not uncommon. Many times, the hospital environment following delivery can provide a birth mother time to reflect and provide her the space and time needed to weigh her options and make a decision that she believes are best for her and her child. In other circumstances, a mother may decide to take the baby home before she realizes over time that she is not prepared or able to provide the kind of life she wants for her child. In these situations, a post-birth adoption is an option and positive parenting decision that will ensure a child’s future well-being consistent with the hopes and dreams that a birth mother has for her child.

It is also important to understand that starting an adoption plan after your child’s birth doesn’t require you to rush through the process or take the time you need to assure you have made all the best decisions for your child.  Birth mothers who start this process post-birth are given the same consideration, care, and time to make informed decisions. It may seem overwhelming at first, but remember that adoption agencies and professionals such as Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. are there to guide and support you through each step of the process.

Please be assured that adoption is not an option that closes once your baby is born. Rather, adoption always remains a viable, loving, and selfless option for birth mothers who decides this path is the right parenting decision for their child.

Is an Adoption Plan Important?

An adoption plan empowers a birth mothers to take control of her adoption process. An adoption plan is an invaluable roadmap that enables you to make decisions about your baby’s future based on your preferences, values, and wishes. So, yes, having an adoption plan is not only important—it’s essential.

The adoption plan allows you to choose the type of adoption you desire—be it open, semi-open, or private. This choice can dictate the level of contact you’ll maintain with your baby and the adoptive family, from regular visits and updates to no contact at all. The decisions are yours.

When making an adoption plan, you will handpick the adoptive family and specify preferences about the family’s background, values, lifestyle, other children, and even pets. You can meet potential families, ask questions, and choose the family that feels right for your child. This is perhaps one of the most empowering aspects of the adoption plan—it gives you a say in the kind of environment and upbringing your baby will have.

By selecting an open or semi-open adoption plan, you are able to establish post-placement contact agreements, detailing the type and frequency of updates or visits you’d like to have with your child and the adoptive family. The plan isn’t set in stone and can change over time based on the comfort level and agreement of all parties involved. It serves as a guide that ensures your baby’s adoption aligns with your vision and comfort level.

Interested in Learning More?

If you’re curious to know more about creating an adoption plan or if you have any other adoption-related questions, the expert Florida adoption attorneys at Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. are here to help. We understand that this is a significant decision and we want to provide you with all the information you need to make the best choice for you and your baby.

We want to assure you that any conversation with us will be strictly confidential and private. Our primary goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space for you to explore your options. Our team is experienced and empathetic, committed to helping you navigate the adoption journey with the utmost care and professionalism.

Adoption is an act of love, and every journey is unique. Whether you’re considering making an adoption plan now or have questions about the process in the future, Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. is available to help you. Reach out to us today, and let’s take the next steps in this journey together.

Finding out you’re pregnant can be a moment filled with a whirlwind of emotions, especially when the future seems uncertain. For some women, the prospect of parenting may feel overwhelming, due to various personal or financial circumstances. If you find yourself in this situation, please remember, you have options. One such option that allows you to secure a promising future for your child is private adoption placement.

Through private adoption placement, you can find adoptive parents who can provide a loving and supportive home for your baby. This process, which offers a level of control and personalization not always available in an adoption through the child welfare system (foster to adopt) puts you, the birth mother, in the driver’s seat. At Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., our Florida adoption attorneys can guide you through this process, ensuring that your needs and the best interests of your child are at the forefront.

At Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., the private adoption placement is carried out without Department of Children and Families (DCF) involvement. This means that your baby can leave the hospital directly in the arms of the family you have carefully chosen for them. Importantly, as a birth parent, you should know that there is no cost to you for this process. The focus remains solely on helping you make the best decision for your child’s future​​.

What is Private Adoption Placement?

Private adoption placement is a type of adoption process where birth mothers have the opportunity to take an active role in planning their baby’s future. Through Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., birth mothers can customize their adoption plan to ensure their child is placed with a family that aligns with their hopes and values.

With private adoption placement, you get to choose the adoptive parents. This can be a deeply empowering process, allowing you to feel secure in knowing that your child is going to grow up in a home that you personally believe will provide them the love, care, and support they deserve. Furthermore, you get to determine the level of involvement you wish to have in your child’s life post-adoption, whether that is receiving regular updates or even having direct contact.

The control you have in a private adoption placement is extensive. You manage the timeline, the level of openness, and the adoptive family selection. This gives you the opportunity to shape the future of your child in a way that reflects your wishes and values.

Additionally, at Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., we provide you with personalized guidance throughout the entire process. We understand that this is a deeply personal journey, and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.

How Private Adoption Can Be a Good Option

Choosing to place your child for adoption is a brave and selfless act. Private adoption, in particular, comes with a variety of benefits that can make this decision a positive alternative to parenting.

Firstly, private adoption allows you to select the adoptive parents for your child. You can choose a family that shares your values and dreams for your child’s future. Whether you’re looking for a family with a particular lifestyle, educational background, religious belief, or simply a loving environment, you have the ability to make that choice.

Assistance with your basic living expenses is available through a  private adoption. In many cases, the adoptive family can assist with living expenses, including rent, food, utilities, phone, maternity clothing, and transportation. This support can help alleviate financial pressures during pregnancy and recovery following delivery.  These expenses are reviewed and approved by the Court to assure compliance with the law and to protect your private adoption plan.

Private adoption also offers free supportive counseling. Deciding to place a child for adoption can be emotionally challenging, and having access to professional counselors can provide invaluable emotional support during this time.

Moreover, private adoption often allows for an “open adoption” arrangement. This means you can maintain a connection with your child and the adoptive family, if you choose. This level of ongoing involvement can provide peace of mind and allow you to maintain a meaningful connection.

Lastly, legal representation is a crucial benefit of private adoption. The Florida adoption attorneys at Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. are knowledgeable about state-specific adoption laws for each unique situation. As a birth parent, you will have the option to have your own legal representation during the adoption process at no cost to you, which can help you feel more secure and informed in the legal process of placing a child for adoption.

Interested in Learning More?

If you are pregnant and unsure about what to do next, remember you are not alone. There are supportive resources and professionals ready to assist you in exploring your options.

At Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., we understand the challenges and emotions you may be facing. As a team of compassionate Florida adoption attorneys, we are here to guide you through the complexities of the adoption process, ensuring that you are informed, comfortable, and confident with each step.

Whether you want to learn more about the process, explore the benefits, or simply have a conversation about your situation, we welcome you to reach out to us.

Making the decision to place your baby for adoption is an incredibly personal choice. At Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., we understand the weight of this decision and are dedicated to supporting birth mothers throughout this process. We offer a private adoption placement process, allowing birth mothers to choose the adoptive parents for their baby. This allows birth mothers to ensure that their child’s future aligns with their dreams for them​​. We maintain a list of profiles for waiting adoptive families. If you do not find your match within our list, we will assist you in finding the right adoptive family through outreach to our network of adoption consultants.

When choosing to work with Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., birth mothers maintain control over their adoption plan. This is your pregnancy, your baby, and your decision. Our team is here to guide and assist you in selecting an adoptive family, facilitating meetings with them if you desire, and creating a plan that incorporates your preferred level of openness in adoption. The choice of adoptive parents can be based on a variety of preferences important to you, such as marital status, age, religion, or whether you wish for your child to be their first​​.

The process of choosing adoptive parents is not to be rushed and we work closely with you to ensure that you select the family that you feel is the best choice for your baby.

Choosing the Adoptive Parents for Your Child

Selecting the adoptive family for your baby is a significant part of your adoption plan. This choice provides you a voice in your child’s future. When you create your adoption plan with us you are able to decide what is important to you for matching with the right adoptive family.

Once you’ve selected an adoptive family, you may choose to speak with them over the phone, meet them meet with them in person or through video chat. Meeting provides an opportunity to get to know the potential adoptive parents better, and our team will be there to assist you throughout this process. Adoptive parents are eager to share photos and update letters after your baby is born, allowing you to remain a part of your child’s life in a way that feels comfortable for you​​.  If you desire a more open relationship with the adoptive family and your child after placement, we will work with you to identify a family open to your goals.

You Are in Control of Your Child’s Adoption

At Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., we believe that the adoption process should be guided by the birth mother’s wishes and needs. This extends beyond the choice of adoptive parents and into the overall type of adoption and the level of involvement you wish to have. You are in control of your child’s adoption process, with the freedom to customize it to your comfort level and desires.

You may opt for an open, semi-open, or closed adoption. An open adoption is one where there is direct communication between the birth mother and adoptive parents, which may even include visits. In a semi-open adoption, there is still communication which usually will include scheduled photo and letter updates. A closed adoption is one where there is no contact or exchange of information between the birth and adoptive parents after the adoption. Closed adoptions are not currently common, but the level of openness is based on your own needs and comfort level with communication.

The level of involvement you wish to have is entirely up to you. You may choose to meet the adoptive family, have them attend prenatal visits, and even have them present for delivery. You may choose to create a communication agreement with the adoptive parents that includes photos and update letters after your baby is born. Our office will assist you with these details, and even attend your meeting with the adoptive family if you would like to help make everyone feel more comfortable. Adoption is your decision, and we are here to support you.

See Some of Our Adoptive Parents

We understand the importance of knowing about the family that you are considering for your child’s adoption. That is why we offer you the opportunity to view the profiles of our current prospective adoptive parents.

Each profile provides you with insights about the adoptive parents’ lifestyle, interests, values, and home environment. This information can help you in making an informed decision about the future of your child. You might find a family that shares your love of the outdoors, a specific faith, or maybe a family who has similar traditions. These shared interests can help you visualize your child’s future and make a selection with a family you feel connected to.

These profiles are just a starting point. After browsing through them, you might feel drawn to a particular family. If so, arrangements can be made for you to meet with them, either in person or through video chat. This personal connection can provide an additional layer of comfort and assurance in your decision-making process​​. On the other hand, if you do not see an adoptive family that fits what you’re looking for, let us know. We are constantly meeting with new families looking to adopt and can help you in finding one that fits with what you’re looking for.

Interested in Learning More?

If you are wanting to learn more about the adoption process or have specific questions, we welcome you to reach out and speak with one of our adoption attorneys. They are equipped with the knowledge and experience to answer your questions and guide you through the process.

Our goal is to support you in whatever way you need, whether that’s providing information, answering questions, or guiding you through your private adoption placement.