Adoption
Adoption can be a selfless and sometimes difficult road, but you don’t have to walk it alone. Daybreak LifeCare Center is here to support you each step of the way.
If you’re considering adoption, we can connect you with trusted adoption professionals who can explain the adoption process, help you understand your rights as a birth parent, and discuss the choices you may have in creating an adoption plan.
As you consider whether adoption may be right for you, it can help to start by asking some important questions.
What are the Different Types of Adoption?
What is Open Adoption?
In an open adoption, the birth parent(s) and adoptive family have some form of ongoing contact. Depending on the adoption plan, this may include sharing pictures and updates, phone or video calls, or in-person visits. The type and frequency of contact can vary based on the arrangements made between the birth parent(s) and adoptive family.
What is a Semi-Open Adoption?
In a semi-open adoption, the birth parent(s) and adoptive family have some contact while maintaining more privacy than in an open adoption. Communication may include letters, pictures, or other updates and may be handled through an adoption agency or another intermediary.
What is a Closed Adoption?
In a closed adoption, there is generally no ongoing contact between the birth parent(s) and adoptive family after the adoption is finalized. Identifying information is typically kept private, although relevant medical and social history may be shared as part of the adoption process.
Do I get to choose the adoptive parents?
In many adoption plans, you can be involved in choosing the adoptive family for your child. You can consider what matters most to you, such as their values, faith, family life, lifestyle, location, and hopes for raising a child.
Depending on the type of adoption you choose, you may also have opportunities to review profiles, ask questions, speak with prospective adoptive parents, or meet them before making a decision.
An adoption professional can help you understand your choices and guide you through the process so you can consider what feels right for you and your child.
How Long Does the Birth Mother Have to Change Her Mind?
In South Carolina, consent or relinquishment for adoption generally cannot be withdrawn once it has been given. A court may allow it to be withdrawn if the court finds that withdrawal is in the best interests of the child and that the consent or relinquishment was not given voluntarily or was obtained under duress or through coercion. Once the final decree of adoption is entered, the consent or relinquishment is irrevocable.1
Start Your Adoption Journey in Columbia, South Carolina
Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions and provide the information and support you need as you consider whether adoption may be right for you and your child.
If you would like to learn more about adoption in South Carolina, call us at 803-771-6634 or schedule your appointment online today. All services at Daybreak LifeCare Center are confidential and provided at no cost.
Sources
- South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 63, Chapter 9, Section 63-9-350 – Withdrawal of Consent or Relinquishment. South Carolina Legislature. https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t63c009.php