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If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy in Ohio, you may be considering adoption. This is an incredibly positive and loving decision. As you consider your options, you may want to learn more about the adoption process in Ohio. The first thing to know is that adoption is NOT “giving up.” It is a selfless, brave and thoughtful choice that can offer both you and your child a bright and happy future.
Understanding the adoption process in Ohio can feel intimidating, but it can be made easier with the support of an adoption agency. To help, we have compiled a list of common questions to help you understand the Ohio adoption process.
How to decide if adoption in Ohio is right for you
Adoption is not the right path for everyone. It is one that must be made with careful consideration. If you are just digesting the news of your pregnancy, you will want to consider all your options before making a decision:
- Parenthood
- Abortion
- Adoption
Parenthood can be a rewarding experience, but it is a lifelong commitment. It can be a challenging road for anyone – particularly those who are not yet ready to raise a child. If you are not yet ready to parent, or you are unable to raise your child, you have two options remaining. While adoption is not an alternative to abortion, it can be a positive choice for anyone who is not in a place to become a parent (or raise another child.)
Which type of adoption should you pursue?
Adoption is a personal decision, much like the right type of adoption for you. At Adoptions With Love, you can choose from the following types of adoption plans:
You may opt for an open adoption if you wish to choose your child’s adoptive parent(s) and meet them – or speak with them – before and after the adoption is complete. This is the most common type of adoption plan today. It does not involve co-parenting, but the beauty of open adoption is that you will have the chance to have a relationship with your child as they grow. You can also form a deep and meaningful bond with your child’s adoptive family. Another benefit of Ohio open adoption is that your child grows up knowing they are loved by two families instead of one.
Expectant/birth parents looking for more privacy may opt for a closed adoption. A closed adoption might be the right choice if you feel that any contact with the adoptive family will hinder your next chapter. You may feel that you need a clean break. There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to making an adoption plan. You can choose the plan that best meets your needs. At Adoptions With Love, photos and letters are kept on file, should a birth parent with a closed adoption decide to open the adoption later.
How to choose an Ohio adoption professional?
Choosing the right Ohio adoption agency is a crucial step in the adoption process. It is important to find an adoption agency that will treat you with respect and dignity, while prioritizing your health and well-being. The best Ohio adoption agencies will offer you supportive services – free of charge – to help you throughout the adoption process. At Adoptions With Love, for example, you will receive legal support, medical care, financial assistance, help designing the perfect adoption plan, and compassionate counseling services – before and after the adoption is complete. These services are always free to expectant/birth mothers planning adoption.
How do adoptive parents get matched to a child and birth family?
As an expectant/birth parent, you have the power to choose your child’s adoptive family. This brings peace of mind to many expectant/birth parents. You can also rest assured that any prospective adoptive family has already been approved for adoption. This is done with a Home Study. This process, which takes several months to complete, involves thorough background checks, screenings, multiple at-home visits and interviews, and the review of important medical and financial documents. This ensures that every child is placed with a family that is healthy enough – physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially – to raise a child.
What does the Ohio adoption process entail?
The adoption process – in any state – begins with the adoption agency. In choosing to work with an Ohio adoption agency, you will have the support and resources needed throughout the entire adoption process. The best adoption agencies in Ohio will listen to your needs, respect your decisions, and offer you supportive services to help you throughout this journey. The next steps for an Ohio adoption include choosing your child’s adoptive parent(s) and designing the adoption plan that best meets your needs.
The adoption process can be a complicated one, as every state has different adoption laws. According to Ohio adoption laws, for example, a birth mother may sign consent forms no sooner than 72 hours (about 6 days) after the baby’s birth. There is no revocation period in the State of Ohio. The right adoption agency in Ohio will provide you with an Ohio adoption attorney who can explain your rights as a birth parent, help you understand the adoption process, and answer your questions.
Adoption is a lifelong journey. It does not end once the paperwork is signed and filed with family court. Your Ohio adoption agency should encourage you to continue counseling. At Adoptions With Love, this service is free for up to a year following the adoption.
When can I begin the adoption process in Ohio?
You can start your Ohio adoption journey as soon as you feel ready. Adoption is a personal decision. It is something that only you can decide for yourself. While you consider this option, you can contact an Ohio adoption agency to get the information you need about their services.
There are only three things needed to begin the adoption journey:
- Know that adoption is the right path for you and your child.
- Be equipped with the adoption information you need.
- The support of an experienced, reputable adoption agency.
Adoptions With Love has been working with Ohio birth parents since 1986. We can help you lovingly make an adoption plan for your child. Reach out at any time for commitment-free information: Call 800-722-7731, text (confidentially) 617-777-0072, or contact us online. We can help you design an adoption plan that makes you feel comfortable with – and confident in – your child’s adoption, building a better life for your child and your own future.
