Yes, the birth father has some rights. He has the right of notification of the pregnancy and adoption plan. He has the right to object to the adoption plan. The birth father has these rights even if he’s not involved or supporting your pregnancy.
What About the Birth Father?
What if I don’t know his address?
If the birth fathers address is unknown and his full name is known, then we, the adoption agency, must make a good effort attempt to find him. Sometimes that means hiring a private investigator to locate him.
What if the birth father is abusive?
We understand that some relationships can be abusive. In these situations, you have rights too. We will do everything possible to protect your confidentiality and location. We can help you develop a safety plan.
What if I don’t know who the biological father is?
Some birth mothers are unsure of the biological father. In these cases, all known names of possible birth fathers are notified. If the birth father is entirely unknown and they can’t be notified, the agency is required to check the Putative Father Registry in the state of Florida to ensure that no man has made a claim of paternity. If not, the court can terminate any and all unknown father’s rights.
What if I’m married? Can I still make an adoption plan?
A married woman can still make an adoption plan. In these cases their husband must sign a surrender for adoption. A husband is considered the Legal Father even if he is not the biological father of the child. We’re here to support you through the adoption process. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support in this type of situation. The agency will assist you with this process. Most legal fathers do not want to be legally responsible for a child that is not biologically theirs.
What choices does a birth father have?
Once the birth father is notified of the adoption plans he has one of four options. He can deny that he is the father and surrender his rights. Or he can choose not to respond at all. If he does this abandonment proceedings will begin and his rights will be terminated. He can object to the adoption plan. If he does, then he must be willing to assume the responsibilities of support. He can agree with the plan and sign a sign a surrender for adoption.
Most birth fathers choose not to parent themselves and sign a consent. Failure to notify all potential birth fathers can lead to legal difficulties. It is best to notify and have the birth father sign consent for the adoption plan.
What to do next?
Call us to connect with an adoption specialist. One of our adoption counselors can walk you through the process and answer your specific questions. We’re here to help you.