Open Adoption

Definition of Open Adoption

Basically, an open adoption means that the adoption records are open rather than sealed. It may or may not mean that the birth parents and the adoptive parents communicate about the child or develop a relationship with each other. If they do choose to communicate, they may decide only to do so during the adoption process, or they may decide to continue contact throughout the child's life.

Open Adoption Agencies

Before you choose an agency, you need to do your homework. Find out what your state laws are regarding open adoptions. As you prepare for your first meeting with the adoption agency or facilitator, prepare a list of questions. Some of these might include the following:

1. What are your fees?
2. What is the money going to be used for?
3. When can I expect my home study to be done?
4. What should I place in my portfolio?
5. How many successful placements have you done in the past year?
6. How long have you been licensed?
7. What happens if the birth mother changes her mind?
8. What if you can't find the birth father?
9. How much contact will I have with the birth parents?

Open Adoption Options

Open adoptions can be handled in a variety of ways. Since most of the birth moms in an open adoption actually choose the adoptive family by searching through portfolios these potential parents have created, they may also want to meet the adoptive parents. If both parties agree, a relationship may be established that will continue as the baby matures.

In some open adoptions, the adoptive parents send yearly up-dates to the birth mother, complete with pictures and maybe a few comments. In others, the birth mother actually has contact with the child periodically and at the discretion of the adoptive parents. It is important to note, however, the adoptive parents have all rights and responsibilities regarding the child.

Open Adoption Fees

Open adoptions can be as little as $5,000 or as much as $40,000, and it is important that you understand exactly what your money is being used for. You will have to pay an application fee, a home study fee, and various legal fees, but you may also be responsible for paying the birth mother's medical fees and some living expenses. Before you begin handing out money, though, be sure you know exactly how much the adoption will cost, and get a signed agreement.

Wait Times

Since the birth mother may have the discretion of choosing the adoptive parents, the wait time for adopting a baby can vary greatly. If a birth mother chooses you, you may only have to wait as long as it takes to complete the paperwork and the baby is born. However, you may also have to wait much longer for a birth mother to choose you as a parent for her child. Still, it is commonly agreed that open adoptions can take significantly less time than closed adoptions might.

Be Informed

Finally, you owe it to yourself to stay as informed as possible. Educate yourself on the laws governing adoption in your state. Search for a reputable adoption agency or facilitator, and be sure you find and talk to other adoptive parents who have used this agency or facilitator. Do your homework before you begin!