Is a Birth Father Forgotten During the Adoption Process?

For those wondering about the role of birth fathers in the Florida adoption process, we can tell you that they’re definitely not forgotten about. At Adoption Choices of Florida, we want everyone to be involved in the process in whatever ways are most feasible. Our top priority of course is assisting pregnant women with navigating the Florida adoption process, however, which means the birth father is usually a lower priority. Oftentimes this is for very practical reasons, like if the birth mother is worried for her and her baby’s safety, or the birth father has clearly stated he is not interested in being involved in the process. However, if both birth parents want to be involved and there are no concerns, we’re more than happy to enable this! Ultimately we leave it up to you, the birth mother, because you are the one carrying the baby and we want to empower you to make whatever choices you feel are best for both of you.

If you’re pregnant and considering adoption but have reason to avoid involving the father, you may be wondering if it’s even possible to place your baby for adoption without his consent. We are required to notify him of the adoption, but not to get consent or anything else unless he chooses to take legal action. In situations where the birth parents are married or the birth father is listed on the birth certificate, he should be involved in the adoption process or at least receive notice in cases where he has abandoned the birth mother and child. Notifying the birth father does require being able to get in touch with him, so if we can’t reach him then we won’t be able to tell him. Unfortunately, this is a very complex process in Florida, but that’s why our adoption specialists are more than happy to assist you. Every situation is unique and your exact circumstances may create a different outcome for you than for someone else. That’s why it’s important to decide as early as possible how involved you’d like the father to be so we can work with you to make things go as smoothly as possible. In cases where the father has requested to take full custody, we do support making that happen. Ultimately, whether you choose to place your baby for adoption is your choice and we are simply here to help.

For couples looking to place their baby for adoption together, we’re more than happy to accommodate you and work with you as a team. We’ll walk you through the whole adoption process and help you decide whether you want an open, semi-open, or closed adoption. If you provide us with your preferences for the adoptive family that will help us find the perfect one. We’ll help you write out a Florida adoption plan together, as well as a birth plan. If you’re in need of resources like housing, financial assistance, money for prenatal care, we’ve got you covered! We’ll also offer support if you’re struggling with resistance from your families or your community.

For pregnant women who are expecting to go through the Florida adoption process alone, you’ll still have access to any and all resources you may be in need of. That includes safe, discreet housing if you have reason to be concerned for you and your baby’s safety. If the birth father is not a safe individual we can offer you a certain amount of protection until you’re able to give birth so that you don’t have to worry. As mentioned above, we will have to notify him about the adoption if he can be located, but we’ll make sure he can’t reach you. Your safety and that of your baby are very important to us and we take that responsibility very seriously.

At Adoption Choices of Florida, we understand the complexities and nuances around adoption. We also know just how emotionally charged the situation can be for many people. Whatever you’re going through, we’ve probably experienced something similar to it before and can offer you advice and counseling, in addition to resources, that will help you on your journey. Give us a call today and see if we’re the right fit for you!

If you are a pregnant woman in Florida considering adoption, and have any questions or concerns about the adoption process, please don’t hesitate to reach out. For more information on adoption, visit us at Adoption Choices of Florida or call us at: (833) 352-3678