Unplanned Pregnancy in Alabama?
Do you have an unplanned pregnancy or are considering placing your child for adoption in Alabama? Gulf Coast Adoptions is a trusted and experienced adoption law firm that provides services through Alabama to include Mobile, Montgomery, Birmingham and all areas in between.
The most common questions we receive from expectant parents thinking about placing their baby for adoption are “Do I receive financial help if I place my baby for adoption in Alabama?” Yes, Alabama law provides the ability for prospective adoptive parents to provide financial support to an expectant mother during her pregnancy and during pregnancy-related incapacity. Maternity-connected medical or hospital expenses and necessary living expenses can be paid as an act of charity by the prospective adoptive parents. The most common expenses include medical care, rent, utilities, transportation, maternity clothing, counseling and other similar adoption related expenses. Gulf Coast Adoptions works closely with expectant mothers to determine what charity and financial assistance options they may be able to receive.
Another common question Gulf Coast Adoptions receives is “What does an adoption in Alabama cost?”. For the expectant mother or father, the adoption process is completely free and does not cost you anything. All adoption fees, legal expenses and the financial support are provided by the prospective adoptive parents.
To complete an adoption in Alabama, the proper people must agree to and consent to the adoption. A mother’s consent is almost always required. If a minor child is over the age of 14, the child’s consent is also usually required. A minor child’s father’s consent may or may not be required, and depends on numerous factors, and Gulf Coast Adoptions is able to answer any questions regarding what consents are required to complete an adoption.
Consents for an Alabama adoption can be given either before the birth of the child or after the birth of the child. Alabama law provides a short window for expectant parents to change their mind as to the adoption, as a consent to an adoption may be withdrawn within five days after the birth or within five days after signing a consent, whichever comes last. The time period to withdraw a consent is extended to 14 days if a Court finds that the withdrawal is reasonable under the circumstances and consistent with the best interest of the child.
Adoptions in Alabama are not just limited to newborns. Any minor may be adopted when appropriate consents are provided as well as some adults.
For Alabama residents seeking to adopt, the State of Alabama has established certain requirements that include, but are not limited to:
- If married, you must have been married for 3 years or more.
- All persons must be over the age of 19.
- You must have sufficient housing and a stable family life.
- You must be of sufficiently good health as verified by medical records.
- You must complete background checks that include a criminal record search
- Able to provide character references.
There are many factors that may make adoption the right choice for you — whether it is finances, timing, or your current situation. Expectant mothers choose adoption for their baby for many reasons, but the most common thread among them is love. They deeply love their child but know that — at this point in their life — they are unable to provide the life they believe their child deserves. Choosing adoption does not mean that you are giving up. It means that you are giving your love to your child and your baby’s adoptive family.
Every member of our team has been personally involved in adoption and many are birth mothers who have been in your shoes.
We understand and are ready to answer any questions you might have. Contact us now at 850-852-8132.