Are you facing an unplanned pregnancy?
If you are pregnant, you might be considering placing your child for adoption in Delaware.
Adoption is a brave and loving option that means your baby will have the chance to grow up in a family where they are loved and cared for. You will have the unique chance to choose the perfect baby for your family to ensure that your little one is able to have an incredible future.
But what happens if your baby’s birth father disagrees with your decision?
What steps should you take?
In this article, we’ll discuss birth father rights in Delaware and explore your options for adoption.
What Are Birth Father Rights in Delaware?
The rights of a birth father will vary based on each individual state, including Delaware. If you’re considering adoption for your baby, it’s important to understand that your baby’s father may get a say in whether or not you’re able to move forward with the adoption process. This is because when paternity is established, each parent may have a right to custody.
If you’re concerned about birth father rights in Delaware and you believe that your child’s birth father may not want you to choose adoption, it’s important to reach out to an adoption professional as soon as possible. An adoption professional can help you determine what your next moves are, as well as whether you’ll need to take any additional steps in order to proceed with the adoption.
Each situation is unique, which means that it’s vital you speak with a professional who can analyze your specific situation and give you personal advice as to what your next moves should be.
Does the Father Have to Sign the Birth Certificate in Delaware?
Birth fathers are not always named on the birth certificate, nor do they need to sign them when a baby is born.
It’s important to understand, however, that if a woman is married when she gives birth, her husband will be the presumed father.
If a birth father is not named and wants to establish that he is the father of a child, he’ll need to complete a Voluntary Affidavit of Paternity. This legal document ensures that a birth father is able to petition for custody of the child if he would like to do so. It also ensures that birth moms who plan to raise their children will be able to receive child support payments if necessary.
What Happens if the Father Doesn’t Sign the Birth Certificate in Delaware?
Even if a birth father does not sign the birth certificate when you have your baby, he may be able to petition the courts for paternity.
Birth fathers do have rights when it comes to whether or not their child is placed for adoption. Make sure you talk with an adoption attorney or your adoption agency if you suspect that the birth father will oppose the adoption.
A professional can help you understand your rights and options if the birth father disagrees.
That said, you may find that simply sharing your hopes and dreams for your baby’s future is enough to help your child’s birth father understand why you’re leaning toward adoption. Sometimes a birth father might feel just as confused as you are. They might want a say in what decisions are made. Talking with a professional can help you start to move forward. When you’re considering your options for adoption, it’s okay to ask your child’s father to speak with an adoption agency, too. Adoption agencies can help everyone involved in the adoption process, including birth fathers.
Where Can I Find an Adoption Professional?
If you’re considering adoption for your baby, it’s important to connect with an adoption professional as soon as possible. The right adoption agency will help you understand birth father rights in Delaware and guide you through the adoption process from start to finish.
When you reach out to an agency, they’ll ask you questions about your pregnancy and adoption expectations. They’ll want to know how far along you are, what you’re expecting when it comes to your adoption experience and how much support and guidance you’d like.
Your agency understands that you’re in a difficult position and that you might be feeling scared or unsure of yourself.
That’s okay!
You don’t have to have all of the answers.
Your adoption agency will explain your options and rights to you and help you understand more about birth father rights in Delaware. They’ll help you prepare for your child’s birth and connect you with resources so you can get the help and support you need on your pregnancy journey.
Your first step will be to reach out to agencies in your area, such as:
- American Adoptions
- Adoptions From the Heart
- A Better Chance for Our Children
- Children and Families First
Call and let them know you’re considering adoption but would like more information. They’ll be able to discuss your options with you and let you know how the adoption process works in your area. You can also contact one of our adoption professionals online today to learn more about addressing birth father rights in Delaware.
