Adopting a relatives baby?

Question

My husband's cousin is having a baby any day now and she does not want to keep it. She wants us to take her baby. Is it legal for her to sign her baby over without an adoption agency being involved? If we do not take the baby she is going to let the baby go up for adoption.

Answer 1

I think it would be a good thing because you don't  know how other people would treat the baby.Then also she could still be apart of the baby's life.The baby would most likely be very grateful when he/she grows up.I was adopted by a family member and I am very thankful me and my siblings got to stay together.

Answer 2

In most states, you can use a lawyer.  A judge will still be involved.  Some states require the use of an agency to eliminate illegal adoptions, but adoptions by relatives are usually exempt.  Contact an adoption lawyer now.

Answer 3

As long as you go through a lawyer and go through the court to finalize then it will all be legal.

Answer 4

I was adopted, and I have always had "issues" with it.  I think it might be even harder for the child to be so near her birth mother knowing that she was "not wanted".  It could also cause weird tensions between you and the cousin over time.  To me it just seems like a tense situation.  Let the baby go to a different home.  Also, she might change her mind after giving birth - it's happened before.  That's just my opinion though.  Good luck with whatever decision you come to.

Answer 5

I would talk to a lawyer or the hospital may know.............I would not have a clue, but good luck!

Answer 6

I dont think you would have to go through an adoption agency, but start by calling the hospital to find out. It's late int he ame now to be figuring this stuff out, so get on it first thing tomrrow and then get out there and get that baby stuff.

Answer 7

It is going to be dependent on your state's requirements for adoption.  Most all adoptions require a home study which is typically done through an adoption agency, but that doesn't mean that you need them to process all the paperwork.  You can use an agency to process an "identified adoption" or you could speak with an attorney who specializes in adoption.  They should be able to tell you what is required in your state.  

However, it is important to remember that adoption IS a legal process and you need to make sure that you are following all the rules & regulations or you have a potential for the adoption being overturned or not approved.  

Good luck to you.

Answer 8

you dont need an agency, all you need is a lawyer.   actually both u and she need lawyers. If you want you can cover her legal expenses as part of the adoption. Good Luck

Answer 9

Contact an attorney to make sure that you have all your bases covered.  You don't want one little thing that wasn't done right to mess up the whole adoption.  These little things can rise to the surface many years after the adoption and result in the child being removed and/or criminal or civil charges.

The adoption process shouldn't be costly or complicated since everything is worked out in advance.  Just make sure a lawyer is involved.

Answer 10

My mom adopted my cousin through an adoption agency but we had to transfer her from brazil to here(TX) so I dont think you "have" to see an agency. Try calling a  agency in your state Im sure they be able to answer your question.

Answer 11

You would not "take" the baby, you would adopt the baby.  It is legal if you follow the legal  procedures in your state. You may have to get a homestudy, will need to get an attorney, who will work to have her rights, and the birthfather's rights (VERY IMPORTANT) terminated.  Than you can file to adopt the baby in court.  In my state, all this takes about $3000 at a minimum, depending on the attorney.

If the birthfather wants to sign voluntarily, that would be great.  If not, he will have to be served.  If he then signs, great.  If not, and he ignores the serve, his rights can be terminated.  If he decides to fight it, depending on his energy and time, the case could drag on for over a year.  This is what an experienced Family Law attorney who has done lots of adoptions is necessary!  If things are not done properly regarding the birthfather's rights, he can come back at any time and may get custody.  Sometimes birthmothers say -- Oh he doesn't know about the baby!  Well, they most always find out!  Never take this chance with a child's life and future!  And it is illegal!  (A felony)

If you think you are the BEST family for this baby, great!  If not, suggest she call a licensed adoption agency where she can select from approved couples ready to adopt, have an open adoption, and get counseling, financial assistance (something you cannot do), housing assistance, etc.

Good luck!