It is important that you think about what is really best for the child as well as for you. In order to make that decision, you should get counsel from people who know you and with whom you have a trusting relationship. Get all the information you need about adoption, think and pray about your decision.

With what you know about yourself, your family history, your support system, the father, and what is likely to happen under both options, you should be able to make the best decision for you and your baby.

Even if unsure, if adoption is a possible option for you, it is also important to get competent legal advice as early in the pregnancy as possible. As you will read under Other Services/Contested Adoptions, time can be a very important factor in whether an adoption will be successful. You are not legally committed to adoption under Kansas law until you sign a consent after the birth. Therefore, it only makes sense to get good legal advice as early as possible. If you come to the conclusion that adoption is your likely course of action, the next step is to select the best family to care for your child.

There is no such thing under Kansas law as an “open” or “closed” adoption. However, openness in adoptions is quite common. Many years ago, adoptions were often more "closed." There would often be no contact and only essential information shared between the parties to an adoption. Today, only a very few birthparents still desire to avoid all contact with the adoptive family.

These days, birthparents are taking more responsibility for their decision and should be sure that they are making the right one. In addition, adoptive families are wanting more information about the birth¬parents to share with their child at an appropriate age. This can be a “win/win” situation if you and the family you select are able to get to know and trust one another before the birth. A good relationship before birth usually will make the future more secure for both after the adoption.

Even though you will not be required to form any particular relationship with your family, we encourage you to do whatever is necessary to feel comfortable and secure in your choice of a family.

Personal contact following adoption is less common, but does occur in some cases.

Today the typical pre-birth selection process involves one or more face-to-face meetings. We also encourage you to make a plan for how you want things to go in the hospital. Following placement, you may want to have the option to request pictures and updates occasionally from the adoptive family. You may also write a letter to the child expressing your love for the child and the reason for your decision. Some birthparents do not desire any contact or communication after the adoption. It is up to you and your adoptive family.

Other than some adoptions by relatives, a current home study (completed within the last year before filing) is required for finalization of all other adoptions. All home studies must include both criminal and child abuse and neglect background checks.

Yes, with limitations. Under Kansas law, an adoptive family may agree to provide reasonable living expenses that are incurred during or as a result of your pregnancy. Any funds paid beyond expenses related to the pregnancy could put the mother at risk for criminal liability.

It is very important to get good legal advice about this matter because a birthparent who knowingly and intentionally receives money that is not allowed or clearly excessive could be found guilty of a criminal act.