Understanding Relationships A Lot Better

The decision to place a child up for adoption requires a great deal of thought and planning, and not just on the part of the mother. The father must also participate in this process to ensure it is a shared and mutual decision. If you are unmarried and pregnant, learn more about the father's role in this process.

Notify the Father

In some states, involving the father in the adoption process is unnecessary. However, it is still a helpful step. Before you partner with an adoption agency, it is best to contact the father to let them know you are pregnant and have plans to place the child up for adoption. 

If you are in a state where consent from the father is required, you will not be able to move forward with the process until the father is notified. If you need support with this process, someone from the adoption agency can help you perform this step.

Get Consent

If you live in a state that requires consent, you need to get the father's approval in writing. However, even if you live in a state without this requirement, it is equally helpful to complete this process. Written consent will help you avoid legal consequences in the future. If the father only provides verbal consent, it is easy for him to return and say he never granted permission for the adoption. 

Written consent provides evidence of their proclamation. In states without this requirement, the father could file a claim against the adoptive family years later if he claims he was not informed of the adoption. Obtaining this consent protects you and the future of the child. 

Document Unique Circumstances

In a state where consent is required, there are circumstances where a mother can bypass this process. In the event of danger inflicted on the father's part towards the mother, it is vital to have these circumstances documented, such as by way of a police report. 

In this situation, the adoption agency can use this evidence and file the necessary paperwork to allow the mother to place the child up for adoption without receiving consent from the father. Like written consent, this process will also bar the father from attempting to interrupt the adoption at any point in the future. 

Again, state law plays a part in dictating the father's role. For this reason, it is best to speak with someone from a local adoption agency to learn more about how you can move forward. 

 For more info, contact a local adoption agency.