“Post-adoption contact” means that a biological parent can have contact with your adoptive child after the adoption has been finalized. This is also known as an “open adoption.” Long ago it was rare for an adopted child to have ongoing contact with their biological parent after they have been adopted. However, open adoptions are more common these days.
What Are the Risks and Benefits of Post-Adoption Contact?
These days, post-adoption contact is known to be healthy, particularly as children find out that they have been adopted and they are curious about their biologic parent or other family. Research shows that open adoptions help adopted kids cope with attachment issues. Also, if a family adopts a child that has a different race, ongoing contact with their biological family helps the child understand culture that may be different than the adoptive family.
Biological parents commonly place their children up for adoption due to financial instability, drug and alcohol dependence, mental illness, or criminal behavior. Adoptive parents agree with post-adoption contact must be careful not to expose their adopted child to drugs, disappointment, a bad influence, or dangerous situations. It is important for adoptive parents to protect their child from irresponsible biological parents who cannot live up to the child’s expectations or broken promises. Moreover, inappropriate comments such as “I’ll get you back someday” or “they stole you from me” can be traumatic to the child.
The amount of post-adoption contact depends on the biological parents’ ability to act responsibly. If a biological parent cannot meet that expectation, communication should be limited. However, if a biological parent demonstrates responsible contact, they should be allowed visitation.
Biological grandparents, uncles, aunts, and other family members could be included in the post-adoption contact agreement. The child will receive love and ongoing contact with stable family members who adores them, and this is very important.
What Should I Do If I am Considering Adoption in Kansas?
Working with our experienced Kansas adoption lawyer can help you successfully navigate the adoption process, including entering into a post-adoption agreement. You need to receive expert legal advice immediately and speaking with an adoption attorney is the first step to bringing a child into your home.
Are you considering adopting a child here in Kansas? Post-adoption contact and open adoptions are just one of many issues to consider. Don’t let delay keep you from bringing a child into your home. Call McDowell Chartered at (316)-269-0746 to get the advice you need.
