An unplanned pregnancy can be a shock. It is possible to feel overwhelmed and stressed. Women in this position may feel a lot of pressure — from family members, friends, or the baby’s father — to make decisions. In fact, this situation usually involves a lot of decisions, from where to get prenatal care to the next steps in your life after the birth. But one of the first and most difficult is whether to keep the baby or not.
If you are not ready to be a parent, you have the option of choosing an adoptive family for your child. Your brave decision to give this gift to your baby will also help parents who want to grow their family through adoption.
Once she has made this choice, an expectant mom generally feels relieved. She can focus on caring for herself and her baby, with the confidence that after the child is born she will not have the responsibility of caring for the child for the rest of his or her life.
But that first decision can be difficult. Sometimes expectant moms put off this decision. How long can you wait before making up your mind?
There is no deadline
In Arkansas, it is legal to relinquish your child for adoption at any point. If your baby is six months old when you recognize that parenting is not a good choice for you in your life right now, there will be adoptive families ready to love your baby.
It is more common for women to make this decision in the hospital. Arkansas has laws specifically for this situation.
According to Arkansas law, a new mom in a hospital or birthing center can relinquish her baby to
- an adoptive family. This is what we would recommend. If you are able to make a decision during your pregnancy, you can choose a family for your baby and get their help and support before the baby is born. They can have their home and their paperwork ready by the time the baby is born. This makes a smooth transition for the child.
- a guardian. This is a temporary arrangement in which someone take responsibility for the child without having parental rights. You would not give up your parental rights, but would not have day-to-day authority for your child.
- the Division of Children and Family Services of the Department of Human Services. In this case, your child would go into foster care until an adoptive family can be found.
- the lawyer working with any of these people.
What is the process?
The birth mother must sign a release in front of witnesses. If she needs a translator or other assistance in understanding the situation, she must have that help.
It’s important to know that it is completely legal for a woman to relinquish her baby at a safe haven in Arkansas. The child will be safe and there are no consequences for the mother.
A better way
Leaving your child in the hospital after birth is legal in Arkansas and you don’t have to make arrangements ahead of time. However, it is better for you and for the baby if you make those arrangements before the birth. If you’re not sure what to do, you can call Heimer Law at 479-799-3603 and let us answer your questions and explain your options.
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