What is an open adoption agreement?
An open adoption agreement is a type of adoption arrangement in which the adoptive parents and the birth parents are able to communicate and even have contact with each other. In Oklahoma, an open adoption agreement is legally binding and is generally created through mediation or an attorney. This type of agreement sets out the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of the adoptive parents, the birth parents, and the adopted child. Under an open adoption agreement, the adoptive parents and the birth parents can agree upon the level of contact they would like to have, such as exchanging letters, emails, or phone calls, or in-person visits. The agreement will also address the type of medical, educational, and other information the adoptive parents will receive from the birth parents. Additionally, if the adoptive parents agree, the birth parents can be involved in the child’s life, including participating in birthdays, holidays, and other events. Open adoption agreements can also be modified or terminated. A judge can review and approve any revisions of the agreement and, if necessary, order changes in the contact between the adoptive parents and the birth parents. Additionally, if either the adoptive parents or the birth parents choose to terminate the agreement, they can do so with court approval.
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