Adoption contract

ManchNP123

Hi, I've been reading these boards frequently and enjoying the advice and experiences of others as my DH and I are pursuing DIA through a lawyer.

Does anyone else have advice or experience with the adoption contract?  We just got a contract for an opportunity that really excites us, but the language is such that we stand to lose a TON of money if the birth mother changes her mind at any point.  Having to sign this before meeting a person seems like almost a ridiculous risk!  Especially after reading about a poster's failed match today- I just can't imagine recovering from that- emotionally or financially. 

Dr.Loretta

I would ask for details on the contract.

For example, ours was pretty "standard" for an agency contract. While we did stand to lose $ if we left the agency, we didn't necessarily lose it if a match fell through. That $ would be kept more or less in escrow for the next match that happened. You may want to ask for clarification with your lawyer as to how funds are handled.

DaisyZH

Welcome to the board!!  I don't have any experience/advice with contacts, but just wanted to say hello : )

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maryoosa

That sort of thing is exactly why I chose to go through an agency. In the agency, I *may* lose expectant mother "expenses" if she changes her mind, but the agency refunds, or holds onto any $ that was paid out to them for placement, legal fees, paperwork, etc.

 

dholsapp

We also worked through a lawyer and would only have been out any money that went to the birth mother, living expenses, counseling, etc. any other placement money would be held in escrow if the match fell through. Like others said, you might want to double check the policies of your lawyers and if they really do make you lose money for a failed placement, I would be weary of working with them. Good luck! 

CaptainSerious

I adopted internationally, so admittedly, I don't know all the ins and outs of domestic adoption.  Is this a contract with an agency or for an independent adoption?  I'd be shocked if you were asked to sign a contract (other than one retaining your facilitator/attorney) for an independent adoption that would place your funds in jeopardy in case of a failed match without meeting the expectant mother.  What I'm trying to ask is, is this contract for a particular match (in which you haven't met the mother/family yet), or is it standard contract language, saying that there are circumstances that could arise in which you might lose funds/expenses if a match fails?