Whether you are an expectant woman or have already given birth, adoption is always an option. It is a difficult decision, but depending on your circumstances, adoption could be the best choice for you and your child.
Although every state has different adoption laws and agencies may handle the process differently, we want you to understand the adoption process in Florida. Reach out to a caseworker from Christian Family Services now so we can review your options.
What Is Adoption?
Adoption is the legal process of permanently transferring all rights and responsibilities of raising a child from the birth parents to adoptive parents. Adoption is not co-parenting.
However, Christian Family Services requires all adoptive families to provide letters and photos to birth families through a semi-open adoption plan.
Steps Toward Adoption
Christian Family Services (CFS) will accompany you throughout your adoption journey and beyond. Here are the steps we suggest for placing your child for adoption:
1. Discuss Adoption With A CFS Caseworker
Before you make any adoption plans, we want to discuss the process thoroughly. A national survey of birth mothers found their greatest satisfaction with their adoptions came from a complete understanding of the adoption process and never feeling pressured.
We make it a priority at CFS to ensure a woman is thoroughly counseled beforehand and feels she can choose freely to place her child for adoption.
2. Make an Adoption Agreement with CFS
Our Adoption Agreement merely indicates your intention to work with CFS toward the placing of your child for adoption. It states that CFS will handle the following:
- Meet with you regularly to provide support and explanation of legal paperwork.
- Assist with maternity expenses.
- Notify the biological father of the intent to place the child for adoption according to Florida law.
- Ensure you have specific tests for HIV/AIDS.
The agreement does not bind you to sign the consent form to surrender your child for adoption.
3. Receive Free Adoption Services
At this point, you are eligible to receive the free services CFS provides. Here is a brief list:
- Assistance with housing
- Medical care
- Food and financial support
- Transportation
- Emotional guidance
- Pregnancy resources
4. Review Profile Books of Potential Adoptive Families
As you continue your adoption plan with CFS, we listen to what you are looking for in an adoptive family. Our potential adoptive couples are fully qualified for adoption with approved background screenings.
We will present books for you to review based on your preferences. Many families are prepared to adopt your child, and we’re confident you will find the perfect one.
Once you choose a family, we will schedule a meeting for you with the potential family, either in person or online. As your pregnancy continues, we review your hospital plan between you, your baby, and the couple you chose to parent your child.
According to Florida statutes, a birth mother must wait 48 hours from the time of birth or when she is notified in writing that she can be released from the hospital before she can sign the consent for adoption.
CFS caseworkers and staff will be with you at the hospital and remain available to answer your questions.
5. Create a Birth Parent & Adoptive Parent Post-Adoption Communication Agreement
After placing your baby with a family, caseworkers work with you to create a Post-Adoption Communication Agreement. The caseworker will also discuss this with the adoptive family.
Once you develop your plan, the Post-Adoption Communication Agreement will be written by your caseworker for you and the adoptive family to sign. While not legally binding, CFS staff work with the adoptive family to ensure they fulfill their promise to you.
Are You Ready to Begin the Process?
If you would like to meet with a staff member to discuss your situation and determine whether placing your child for adoption is the right choice for you, please contact us. You can make an appointment by filling out our online Contact Form or calling or texting the nearest location.
