Whether you’re still pregnant, already at the hospital or have even brought your baby home, you can still move forward with adoption. It’s never too late to make this choice for your baby’s future.
Choosing adoption last minute doesn’t mean you’re “giving up” on your baby — you’re putting their future above your own needs and wants. It’s a selfless decision made with your baby’s best interests in mind.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what immediate adoption involves, the steps to make a last-minute adoption plan and how to get support. To start the adoption process, reach out to us online or call or text 608-821-8221.
What Is a Last-Minute Adoption?
An immediate or last-minute adoption refers to placing your baby for adoption close to birth. Even if you’ve been raising your baby at home for a few days, an agency like Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc. can help you make an adoption plan.
Adoption can offer your baby opportunities you may not be able to provide right now. This path can give your baby a stable, caring home, allowing them to grow up in a supportive environment. By placing them with a loving adoptive family, you can help them reach their fullest potential and become the person they’re meant to be.
How Does a Last-Minute Adoption Work?
While a last-minute adoption plan may be accelerated, the steps you’ll follow are similar to the traditional adoption process. Our team will help you through each step to make sure you’re comfortable, informed and empowered to make the decisions that feel right for you and your baby.
Step 1: Contact a Wisconsin Adoption Agency
Start by reaching out to an adoption agency like Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc. We work with parents all across the state, whether you’re in a city like Madison or a rural area in the Northwoods. If you’re unable to travel, don’t worry — a social worker can come to you and provide all the support you need for your last-minute adoption.
Step2: Decide How Much Contact You’d Like
Adoption doesn’t have to mean goodbye forever. Most modern adoptions are open, allowing you to stay in touch with your child and their adoptive family. You can choose how often you’d like to communicate, whether it’s through letters, photos or even in-person visits. If you need time to heal, contact can begin when you’re ready. Or, if you prefer to move forward on your own, a closed adoption is always an option.
Step 3: Pick Local Adoptive Parents for Your Baby
Even in a time-sensitive situation, you’ll have the opportunity to select the right family for your baby. Your social worker can provide you with profiles of adoptive families who match your preferences, or you can view families online. Once you’ve chosen your baby’s adoptive parents, your social worker will notify them of the adoption opportunity and coordinate the next steps.
Step 4: Complete the Legal Part of the Process
In Wisconsin, parents choosing adoption must terminate their parental rights in court. We will help you with filing the necessary documents and be there with you to appear in court. This usually happens about one to two months after you’ve placed the baby for adoption. This can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Your social worker and an adoption attorney will support you throughout the legal process, ensuring that your rights are respected.
Step 5: Move Forward After Placement
After the adoption placement, you can begin the next chapter of your life. Whether it’s completing your education, caring for your other children or focusing on your personal goals, you’ll have the space to move forward while staying connected with your baby if you wish.
Can Adoption Agencies Immediately Help?
Absolutely. Adoption agencies like Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc. are prepared to help you immediately, no matter the timeline. Our staff is experienced in managing last-minute hospital adoptions, providing emotional, legal and practical support to help you feel secure in your decision. From the moment you contact us, you’ll have compassionate professionals by your side.
You’ll have control over each decision along the way as well as access to counseling, legal guidance and potential financial assistance. If you want to move forward with an immediate adoption, text or call us at 608-821-8221.
