What is an open adoption agreement?

An open adoption agreement is a written legal document that establishes the rights and responsibilities of all parties in an adoption. In Virginia, an open adoption agreement is a contract between the adopting parents and the birth parents that outlines the level of contact the birth parents will have with the child after the adoption. The agreement includes details about how frequent contact will be allowed (usually through letters, text messages, emails, and phone calls), and whether visits will be allowed. It also defines the financial responsibilities of both the adoptive parents and birth parents, such as exchanging medical records, immediate and ongoing medical costs, and travel costs. Open adoption agreements also state the confidentiality of both the adoptive family, the birth family, and the child, ensuring that all parties respect each other’s privacy. Open adoption agreements are beneficial because it provides the child with the ability to maintain a relationship with their birth family, while also allowing them to be part of their new adoptive family. It also helps to foster an open and positive relationship between the birth family and adoptive family.

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What is an open adoption agreement?

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