Independent Adoption

What is Independent Adoption?

Infant/Newborn
Independent adoption is a “private placement” in which the birth parent(s) place the baby directly with the adoptive parent(s). Generally the baby is placed at the time of discharge from the hospital after the birth event. Independent adoption of a child is not restricted to children born only in California, as sometimes the prospective birth parent(s) are out of state. Our Adoption attorneys are familiar with the process and requirements for a placement from another state so that this will not limit the options for the adoptive parents.

Child/Children
Independent Adoption is also utilized for the adoption of “older” children with a family member or close family friend who has developed a relationship with the child or children. Sometimes it is due to a catastrophic illness, or other circumstances where a relative has been involved as a primary caregiver to the child and the parent may be unable to care for the child, or unavailable for the child or children due to an extended absence such as incarceration in state or federal prison or abandonment. Independent adoption is also an option after an extended guardianship of a child or children under certain circumstances.