Choosing adoption for your baby is a deeply personal and often emotional decision. If you're considering placing your child for adoption in Louisiana, one of the most important questions you may have is:
"Do I get to choose the adoptive family?"
At Gaudin Law Group, we want you to know that the answer is yes
—you have a voice and a choice in the adoption process.
Your Right to Choose the Adoptive Family
In Louisiana, if you are the birth mother (or birth parents) making an adoption plan, you absolutely have the right to choose the adoptive family. This is especially true in private (independent) adoptions or agency-assisted adoptions, where you work directly with an adoption agency or an attorney.
As the birth parent, you can:
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Review Profiles: Agencies and attorneys often provide profiles, photos, and background information about hopeful adoptive families.
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Set Preferences: You can express what kind of family you're looking for—religious beliefs, family size, location, cultural background, values, etc.
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Meet the Family (Optional): In many cases, you can meet or speak with the adoptive parents before the birth to build a relationship and feel confident in your decision.
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Create an Adoption Plan: You can help design how the adoption will unfold, including details about your hospital stay and post-adoption contact (if desired).
Open vs. Closed Adoption: What Are Your Options?
Choosing the family also involves deciding what kind of relationship —if any—you want with them and your child after the adoption is finalized.
Open Adoption
This allows for ongoing contact between birth parents, adoptive families, and sometimes the child. The level of contact is customizable and can include:
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Letters and photos
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Scheduled visits
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Phone or video calls
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Social media updates
Semi-Open Adoption
Communication typically happens through a third party like an attorney or agency, maintaining some privacy while still offering updates.
Closed Adoption
No contact occurs between birth parents and adoptive families after placement. The records are sealed, and identities remain confidential.
At Gaudin Law Group, we support your right to make the choice that’s best for you and your baby —whether that means staying connected or seeking closure and privacy.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Working with an experienced Louisiana adoption attorney ensures that:
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Your rights are fully protected
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You understand all legal requirements and timelines
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You receive any assistance you're legally entitled to (such as prenatal care, housing, counseling, etc.)
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Your decision is informed, respected, and legally sound
At Gaudin Law Group, we offer confidential consultations for birth parents and walk you through every option and obligation so that you’re never alone in the process.
You’re in Control—and You’re Not Alone
Adoption doesn’t mean giving up—it means making a plan out of love and courage. Choosing the right family is part of that plan, and it’s a decision you have the power to make.
If you’re considering adoption in Louisiana and want to learn more about choosing an adoptive family, we invite you to reach out to Gaudin Law Group today. We’re here to listen, support, and advocate for you—every step of the way.