10 FAQs About Adoption

Black baby posing with red sheets

  1. Can I choose the family for my child?
    Absolutely! Every couple adopting through Christian Adoption Services has gone through a thorough screening process and are ready to take on the responsibility of being a parent to your child.

  2. How much contact can I have with my child afterward if I choose adoption?
    While in the hospital you can have as much or as little contact as you desire. When planning for your child’s adoption, you can choose an open adoption that allows you to have ongoing visits with your child, or you can choose a less open adoption that keeps you informed about your child’s progress through letters and pictures. Adoptive families respect the fact that you have chosen life for your child and are happy to let you know that your child is safe, happy and loved.

  3. How soon after birth can the child go to his/her adoptive family?
    That depends on what you prefer. Many moms want their babies placed directly from the hospital with the adoptive family. Some women prefer to place their babies in transitional care while they consider their adoption decision.
  4. Do you only accept infants for adoption? Do you only accept healthy children as my baby has been diagnosed with a medical problem?

    Every child is adoptable, from every race, to every age, to every medical condition. Christian Adoption Services is dedicated to serving all of the children who need a home. Please call a caseworker at 800.453.1011 to discuss your particular situation. Every child finds a loving family!

  5. Does the birth father have any rights?
    Both you and the father have rights. If he disagrees with the adoption or you no longer have a relationship with him, then Christian Adoption Services will work with the father and the courts to terminate his parental rights and legally free the child for adoption.
  6. How much will my child know about me?
    North Carolina requires that each birth mother (and father if he is involved) fill out medical and social history forms. In choosing open adoption, you will share your full identity with the adoptive family. In a semi-open adoption, North Carolina law allows a child to petition to open up their sealed adoption records after the age of 21. The information that the child will know about the birth father depends on his relationship with you and if he cooperates with your adoption plan.
  7. How can I be sure that my child is being well cared for?
    Families seeking to adopt through Christian Adoption Services must meet the agency’s standards. The agency completes a thorough assessment of each potential adoptive family prior to receiving placement of a child. Before the adoption has been finalized, a social worker will make home visits with the family and child to make sure of the child’s well-being.
  8. Do I need an attorney or do I pay the agency to assist me in finding a home for my child?
    You do not need an attorney and there are no costs to you. The adoption agency will handle all of the legal details for you and the father.

  9. Does the agency offer assistance with medical and living expenses while I am making an adoption plan?
    Limited assistance with medical and living expenses is available. Please contact your caseworker for details on how the agency can help in your particular circumstances.

  10. Can my child find me someday if my child wants to search for me?
    The law in North Carolina states that a child has the right to petition the agency after the age of 21 for information contained in the adoption file.

Kristy kissing baby Luke

Kristy visits with her son Luke in an open adoption. Remember, adoption is not giving away a child; it is GIVING TO your child.