Adopting a child is a stressful, time-consuming, and ultimately rewarding experience that provides a child with an opportunity to live in a stable and loving environment. Though the legal and emotional aspects of adoption are often discussed, few talk about the criminal dangers that can be associated with adoption. One of the most heartbreaking things that adults wanting to become parents can experience is adoption fraud.
As adoption becomes more difficult throughout the United States, an environment that breeds fraudulent activity grows, placing adults and children in danger. Knowing how to recognize adoption fraud can protect you or your loved ones from being hurt emotionally, physically, and financially.
Guarantees
No matter how reliable the agency is or how well-meaning a birth family seems, it is impossible for them to make certain guarantees. Time frames for adoptions can fluctuate based on court calendars, personal or professional emergencies, and other outside forces.
If an agency or individual promises you that your adoption will be completed within an exact period of time, it is a good idea to be wary. Also, if any of your concerns regarding the health of the baby or compliance of both parents are met with absolute assurances, that could be a red flag.
It is always possible that one parent could change his or her mind or that medical complications could occur, and most reputable agencies will advise you of that fact to prepare you for that possibility even if the chances are slight.
Multiple Financial Emergencies
A family with known financial issues or a person who is pregnant while homeless may legitimately need financial assistance. That is something most adoptive parents expect and are prepared to assist with. However, if a person who has not mentioned financial issues prior to the initiation of the adoption suddenly begins having nonstop financial emergencies, that could be a warning sign of things to come.
A person who is constantly contacting you to request money for food, rent, medical expenses that are not documented, and other needs may only be focused on getting money during the pregnancy with no intention of completing the adoption. Anyone who needs financial assistance will not hesitate to provide you with information necessary to verify his or her story and instead of receiving funds outside of those already agreed upon will accept assistance in the form of direct payments to creditors, food deliveries, and more.
Limited Communication
A woman or family willing to place their child with you usually wants to communicate on a regular basis to discuss your concerns, verify aspects of the arrangement, and confirm that you are the right choice for their biological child. If the person you are adopting from does not seem willing to talk to you at all, that is a major warning sign.
Even if they are uncomfortable talking to you on the phone, emails, text messages, and even social media messages are all viable forms of communication. Either you or representatives from the agency you are using should always be able to get in touch with the birth mother.
Getting Legal Advice
If you are afraid of being taken advantage of during the adoption process, especially through adoption fraud, the best way to protect yourself is by securing the assistance of an adoption attorney. The team at Lawrence Law Office is available to guide you through the adoption process while protecting your legal interests. Contact us today and schedule an appointment so that we can begin discussing your needs.