Adoptive Parents:

Building A Family Through Adoption:

Each adoption is unique.  Attorney Mark R. Iverson and his staff provide adoption, surrogacy and guardianship services. They help prospective parents determine the type of adoption that meets their family’s needs. The staff offer support and guidance throughout the adoption process. Adoption is a journey. Mark Iverson and his wife adopted and raised three children, one of whom works in the law office, where she assists other parents in navigating the complex process of adoption. Mr. Iverson’s personal and legal experience offer a unique perspective.

The process can initially be confusing. Mark R. Iverson offers a free consultation to review your particular needs and give you an overview of all the different ways to adopt a child.

Medical Expenses

In most cases, the birth mother’s medical expenses related to the pregnancy are covered by Medicaid. If the birth mother does not qualify for state assistance and has no private insurance, the adoptive parents may assume responsibility for the medical expenses related to the pregnancy and birth. If the birth mother has private insurance the prospective  adoptive parents pay any uncovered or out-of-pocket medical expenses.

FAQs:

How Do Prospective Adoptive Parents Find a Birth Mother?

Our office matches birth mothers with prospective adoptive parents.

You must have an approved home study before you announce your plan to adopt on social media.  We recommend that you let family and friends know of your desire to adopt a child.  If you do hear of a birth mother, give us a call. We can assist you in how to approach the birth mother before an initial meeting takes place.

What Is the Difference Between an Open Adoption and a Closed Adoption?

Most adoptions are open, which simply means that the birth parents and adoptive parents have met or know one another.  In Washington, the birth parents and adoptive parents may file an open adoption agreement with the court that outlines contact between the adoptive parents and birth parents.  Most agreements allow two visits a year between birth parents and the adopted child, along with letters and other information, such as photos, that are sent to the birth parents a couple times a year. The terms of the agreement are worked out between the birth parents and adoptive parents.

How Long Does It Take to Adopt?

Each adoption is unique.  The adoptive parents must first qualify as prospective adoptive parents. They must complete an approved home study that includes a background investigation and be recommended by the professional who conducts the home study. Most adoptions are completed within one year.

Who Pays for Attorney Fees and Expenses?

The prospective adoptive parents pay all attorney fees and costs.  The birth mother is usually covered by Medicaid and there are no additional costs for medical expenses related to the birth. If the birth mother does not qualify for Medicaid, the prospective adoptive parents pay any uncovered or out-of-pocket medical expenses. At times the birth mother requires financial assistance for expenses related to her pregnancy (E.g. Housing, food, cell phone, bus pass).  Those would also be paid by the prospective adoptive parents.

Up to What Point May a Birth Mother Change Her Mind About Placing a Baby for Adoption?

Washington

In Washington, the birth mother signs a consent prior to the birth of a child. That consent is presented to the Court at least 48 hours after the birth and an order accepting the birth mother’s relinquishment (termination of rights) is signed by the judge.  The birth mother may revoke her consent up to the time the order terminating parental rights is presented to the Court.