Birth Father

The title of birth father is generally given to a man who is biologically related to a child. It wasn't until nearly 40 years ago, in 1972, that birth fathers had any kind of rights to play a role in the adoption process. Nowadays, depending on the state in which an adoption takes place, birth fathers can contest a birth mother's decision to place a child with an adoptive family.

Sometimes, a woman chooses not to notify a birth father of his future paternity. Therefore, most states require some form of effort from both the potential birth father and the birth mother's agency or attorney to notify the birth father of adoption plans. These notices may be posted in a local newspaper. Birth fathers may also register with a state's putative father registry to express interest in the adopted child. Biological fathers who wish to be more active in the support of the birth mother and child and can prove they've been financially helpful during the pregnancy are also thought to have justified cause to contest an adoption.

Biological fathers are not a huge threat to adoptive processes, particularly if the state has laws that allow a birth mother to consent to an adoption quickly after birth. However, adoptive parents should familiarize themselves with their state laws regarding biological fathers to ensure every step is taken to avoid any kind of legal surprises.