Can I place my child for adoption without an adoption agency?

Adoption without the use of an adoption agency is possible in Delaware. This process is often referred to as a private adoption or an independent adoption. To do a private adoption, you must be a resident of Delaware for at least six months prior to the adoption. You will also need to contact a qualified adoption attorney in Delaware to represent you and your child in the adoption process. In Delaware, parents may place their child for adoption without an adoption agency through a voluntarily relinquishment of parental rights. This process requires both biological parents to sign a surrender form as an act of giving up their parental rights. This surrender form then must be approved by the court after the birth parent(s) has/have had time to consider it. After the court has approved the surrender form, the child is then legally available for adoption. In a private adoption, the parents are usually allowed to pick the adoptive parents, and the adoptive parents are involved in the process as well. All parties are represented by their own attorneys, and the adoption process is completed through the court system. In some cases, the birth parent(s) may also be allowed to have contact with the adoptive parents for visitation or other contact after the adoption is complete. If you choose to place your child for adoption through a private adoption in Delaware, it is important to make sure to work with experienced and qualified professionals who will help you understand your legal rights and options.

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