A Birth Parent’s Bill of Rights
If you are considering
placing your baby in an adoptive home, you are entitled
to certain rights, some of which are guaranteed to you by law.
This “Birth Parent Bill of
Rights” was prepared as a public service by Adoption Agency Council of New Jersey, the non- profit, licensed child placement agency which has been finding loving homes for babies for more than 90 years.
If any of the rights are not
absolutely granted by the adoption resource with whom
you are working, or if you have any questions or concerns, please see your pre-natal or hospital social worker for advice on how to receive these rights.
- You have the right to
be free from pressure.
This is an important decision and you need time to make it. Your adoption resource should assist you to plan for your child’s future, not insist that you make up your mind before the baby’s birth, or even immediately afterwards.
- You have the right to
Total confidentiality.
Even if you are a minor, placing a child in adoption is your decision alone and it should be respected.
- You have the right to
get help with medical and
other pregnancy related expenses.
If you don’t have health insurance or aren’t eligible for Medicaid, your medical fees, including those of private doctors, should be paid for by either your adoption resource or by the adoptive family. Adoption agencies in New Jersey may be able to help you find temporary housing during your pregnancy if you need it.
- You have the right to be put
in touch with other women who
have placed their babies in
adoptive homes.
Before making a decision, or afterwards, you may wish to speak with someone else who has had the same experience and understands your feelings.
- You have the right
to counseling.
A trained and impartial social worker
familiar with adoption should be available to help you review all the
options and make the best plan for you
and your baby. You should be able to come back for counseling or to supply updated information at any time. An established agency understands adoption is a life-long process and not a spur of the moment decision.
- You have a right to choose
your baby’s adoptive
parents.
If you are working with a private in New Jersey adoption agency, you should be presented with several families so that you can choose the family you would want for your child. If you are responding to an advertisement, you should talk with the family. You should consider meeting the family and this should be an option.
- You have the right to a
safe, legal, efficient process.
You should be able to review and familiarize yourself with all related documents and paper ahead of time, and you have the right to keep copies of anything you sign.
- You have the right to
peace of mind.
Every prospective adoptive family should be pre-screened to be sure they will provide your baby with an excellent and loving home. A licensed agency prepares a thorough home study report detailing the family’s work history, physical and emotional
health, financial situation and personal history.
- You have the right to choose ongoing
communication with the
adoptive family including the exchange of pictures and letters.
- You have the right to choose an open adoption.
You and the adoptive family can choose to be in contact with each other through phone calls, letters, e-mail and personal visits.
- You have the right to take as much time as you need to make an adoption plan.
Verbal promises or written agreements signed before the birth of the baby are NOT binding
in any way. You should not sign relinquishment documents until you are absolutely sure that adoption is the right choice for you and your baby.
- You have the right to an adoption resource that will stand by a child with health problems.
You should expect your adoption resource to locate adoptive families for any child regardless of
health issues.
- You have the right to send the agency updated medical information.
An established adoption resource will still be there for you if any medical condition develops which should be known to your child and the adoptive family. Your adoption resource should be able to maintain medical records and provide this necessary service.