Adoption

 Adoption can be a very good choice for teens and women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. Parenting is a choice and a commitment to provide a stable, loving, and permanent environment for your child. You may, however, find yourself unable to parent your child as you would like to.

The decision to not be a parent, when accompanied by an adoption plan, is not abandonment! Rather, making an adoption plan shows maturity and wisdom. It shows that you understand that the best environment for your child to experience healthy development is a permanent, secure family.

Formal adoption provides security and legal protection for your child that cannot be matched by guardianship or other informal care processes. Adoption terminates your rights and responsibilities and transfers them to the adoptive family so your child can become a full and permanent member of the adoptive family.

It is important for you to receive information on all of your options so that you can make a fully informed decision about your pregnancy. Our center would be glad to provide you with counsel on this option. We can take the time to address any concerns you may have and provide a referral to adoption agencies in our area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Adoption:

• Can I be helped financially?

There is no cost to you for considering or making an adoption plan. In New Hampshire, financial assistance is available for counseling, medical expenses and legal fees. We can provide you with a referral to several agencies that can help you.

• Can I choose a family for my baby?

Yes! Most agencies have many different families you can choose from. These families have been screened and approved through a rigorous process. You may also choose a friend or someone who has been recommended to you.

• How much will my child know about me?

It will depend on what type of adoption you choose: open, semi-open or closed. Your adoption agency will ask for your complete medical and social history, as well as that of the birthfather, if known. This information is important for your child. Beyond that, it will be up to you how much more you choose to disclose.

• Does the birthfather have any rights?

In New Hampshire, an alleged birthfather must file a paternity claim before the birthmother relinquishes her parental rights, consents to an adoption, or has her parental rights terminated involuntarily, in order to preserve the right to establish paternity and be served notice of any termination- or adoption-related proceeding.

• How soon after birth can my baby go to the parents I choose?

There is a 72-hour waiting period after the birth of the baby before a birthparent(s) may relinquish and consent to adoption.

• How much time does a birthparent have to change his or her mind after consenting to the termination of parental rights?
  
  Validly offered consents are immediately irrevocable, absent fraud or duress.