[Ritam]

I am new to all of this. My friends approched me with adopting their unborn child. I don't know how to go about this. If anyone has any information about this it would be greatly appreciated.Thank you.

[tss]

I would think you would have to get a lawyer.

[Xanny]

I don't know a whole lot about domestic adoption, but I do know that the laws vary from state to state. Check out the forum for Adoptive Parents from your state, and ask your question again there.

The advice to check with a lawyer is probably good in every state. A reputable adoption attorney should be willing to talk to you without asking for money just to evaluate your case and tell you if you need a lawyer or not. You can also check out some social service agencies (Family Services, or something like that) that work with adoptive families.

Good luck!

[tobeafamily]

I agree - you'll need first to get an attorney experienced in domestic parental placement.

The American Academy of Adoption Attorneys keeps its' member listing online at www.adoptionattorneys.com. Contact at least THREE in your area and compare their experience with domestic parental placement, services, fees, and your comfort level. I'd also ask for references.

Another alternative is to contact local adoption agencies - look for ones with experience in domestic parental placement. Ask how many of these they have completed in the past 2 years, 5 years, ask for references, check licenses, fees, services, etc.

If you can, speak with your OB/GYN and religious leader and ask for attorney and agency recommendations as well. They often know 'who is good' and such.

Best of luck,

Regina, Amom to Ryan Joshua Thomas

[Support2Adopt]

First off, is this something you would like to do? Just because your friends have asked you to adopt their baby, doesn't mean you have to.
If you truly want to do this, you will need work with either an adoption agency or adoption attorney.
First, you'll have paperwork to fill out. You will also need a homestudy done. Depending on the laws of your state, the potential Birthmother may be required to have counseling. (I advocate for this with a nuetral party whether required by law or not.)
After placement, most likely you will have to have post placement visits from a licensed social worker.
One very important thing is that you and your friends can come to an agreement as to how open this adoption would be. Would there be visitation or just letters and pictures? How open would you feel comfortable with?
Please ask as many questions as need be!
JJ

[Mex]

Is your friend planning to carry this baby to term or are you talking about embryo adoptions?
I have a friend who is going through embryo adoptions now (she is allowing her embryos to be adopted to another couple) and she has been really pleased with the agency.
I believe there is only one in the country -- called Nightlight Adoptions or Snowflakes. Search on the web and you'll find them out of California. They may have some advice for you even if they aren't involved.

Blessings.