What is a post-adoption contact agreement?

A post-adoption contact agreement (PACA) is a legal agreement between the adoptive parents and the birth parents in Washington state that allows for specified contact between the birth parents and the adopted child. The agreement usually involves an exchange of letters, photos, phone calls, meetings, and/or other forms of communication. The agreement is voluntary, and both the adoptive parents and the birth parents must agree to it. The agreement is then filed with the court and becomes legally binding. The purpose of a post-adoption contact agreement is to provide assurance of communication between the adoptive family and the birth family. It is also intended to promote healthy relationships and maintain connections between the child and the birth family. This is especially important for the child, as it helps to maintain their identity and promote positive mental health. Post-adoption contact agreements are not legally enforceable in Washington state and the terms of the agreement require the consent of both parties. However, the agreement does create a legally binding document that can be introduced as evidence in court if there is a dispute about the agreement. Ultimately, post-adoption contact agreements are important tools for ensuring effective communication between the adopted child and their birth parents. They provide a safe and secure means of communication while also upholding the rights of both the adoptive and birth families.

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What is a post-adoption contact agreement?

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