If you are a minor in Kentucky, you do not need to have your parents’ permission to place your child for adoption. However, the courts will appoint a “guardian ad litem” to represent you. This person offers legal counsel to make sure you understand the adoption process.
Adoption laws vary by state, so choosing an adoption coordinator who thoroughly understands your state’s adoption requirements is critical. Read on for more information about the adoption option.
What Does it Mean to “Give Up a Child?”
“Give up a child” is a phrase that was once used when describing a mother placing her child for adoption. No loving mother “gives up” her child. Perhaps you recognize, for whatever reason, that you are unable to provide for them, so you make an adoption plan for their future. You are not “giving up” your child; you are caring for them well as you place them with a loving family. As such, the phrase “give up” is no longer used to describe adoption.
Before, society at large and, oftentimes, family members didn’t give unwed pregnant women a choice. Today, however, you have options. Making an adoption plan for your child is one of them.
If you are considering adoption for your child, remind yourself that you are a loving and caring mother. While difficult, choosing adoption for your child is a selfless and compassionate choice.
How Do I Make an Adoption Plan?
We recommend finding an adoption coordinator that puts you first. Our team can provide referrals for reputable, licensed adoption agencies in our area.
It should cost you nothing to place your child for adoption. In Kentucky, an adoption agency can assist you with the following expenses:
- Uninsured medical expenses, including prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum care
- Adoption placement services
- Legal fees
- Additional pregnancy-related expenses approved by the court
Once you and your adoption coordinator determine you want to move forward, you can choose the potential adoptive family for your child. Selecting the parents is the perfect opportunity to give your child the future you want them to have.
You also choose the adoption plan that is best for you. There are three main plans:
- Open – you and the adoptive family share identifying information and contact one another directly.
- Semi-open – you communicate with the adoptive family you choose through a third party, such as your adoption agency coordinator
- Closed – you have no contact with the couple chosen to raise your child.
How Can BsideU For Life Help Me?
If you want more information about adoption, schedule a no-cost, confidential appointment online to talk with us. We can explain the process in greater detail and offer suggestions for agencies.
An unplanned pregnancy is overwhelming and, in some cases, scary. Don’t worry. We are beside you all the way. Call (502) 589-9400 or text us at (502) 309-4951. We can assist you.
Adoption laws change. This blog should not replace legal advice. See a licensed professional adoption coordinator for information on adoption law and birth parent’s rights.