Understanding Ohio Adoption Laws
--You Have Rights as a Birth Mother
Recognize Your Rights
If you are considering adoption in Ohio, it’s important to know your rights. Laws are in place to protect you and your baby. You always have the choice to decide what is best.
Jolene from Columbus said, “I was nervous about signing papers. My case manager Kathy explained everything step by step. I felt in control and safe. She made sure I understood my rights before I made any decisions.”
When You Can Sign Adoption Papers
In Ohio, you can sign adoption consent papers 72 hours (three days) after your baby is born. This waiting period is the law, and it protects you by giving you time to:
- Hold your baby and spend time together
- Rest and recover from childbirth
- Think clearly about your decision
- Be sure adoption is what you want
You cannot be pressured to sign before the 72 hours are up. Anyone who tries to get you to sign earlier is breaking the law.
Your case manager will make sure:
- You fully understand your rights
- You feel comfortable with your decision
- You have legal support from an adoption attorney
- You’re signing voluntarily, not because of pressure
You are never rushed or pressured to sign anything.
You Don’t Need a Lawyer Alone
While we always work with adoption attorneys to make sure everything is legal, your case manager stays with you every step.
They answer questions, explain papers in easy language, and make sure you feel safe and confident.
Ready to learn more? Call or text us anytime at 689-208-2050. We’re here to listen, not to pressure.
How Do I Sign Consent in Ohio?
When you’re ready to sign consent, you have two options:
Option 1: Appear in person before a judge in probate court. The judge will ask you questions to make sure you understand what you’re doing and that you’re doing it voluntarily.
Option 2: If your baby is six months old or younger, you can sign a notarized statement of consent instead of appearing in court. This is convenient if you prefer not to go to court.
- What makes Heart to Heart Adoptions different?
- Will I be pressured to choose adoption?
- Where are the safe apartments to stay?
- Do you work with women in difficult situations?
- What kind of help is available for pregnant women?
- Can I get safe housing during pregnancy?
- What happens after I deliver my baby?
- How do I get emotional support?
- How do I find a safe family for my baby?
- Do I get to decide on the adoptive family?
- What expenses are covered during pregnancy?
- Will I get to see my baby after birth?
- What is open adoption in Ohio?
- What’s the difference between open and closed adoption?
- How does the Hearts Connect app work?
- Can I stay in touch with my child?
- How do I place my baby for adoption in Ohio?
- How do I choose the adoptive family?
- What support will I get before and after birth?
- How do I create a hospital plan?
- What are my rights as a birth mother in Ohio?
- When can I sign adoption papers in Ohio?
- What are birth father rights in Ohio?
- Can I change my mind about adoption?
Before you sign, an adoption attorney will:
- Explain what the papers mean in simple, easy-to-understand language
- Answer all your questions
- Make sure you know this decision is permanent
- Confirm you’re not being forced or pressured
Can I Change My Mind About Adoption?
Before you sign consent: You can change your mind at any time. We’ll support you whether you choose adoption or parenting.
After you sign consent: Ohio law says consent can only be withdrawn before the adoption is finalized, and only if a judge finds that withdrawing consent is in the child’s best interest. This is very rare.
Once the adoption is finalized by the court, your consent cannot be withdrawn. The adoption is permanent.
This is why it’s so important to:
- Use the 72-hour waiting period to think carefully
- Talk through your feelings with your case manager and counselor
- Ask questions until you’re absolutely sure
- Not sign anything until you’re ready
What Are Birth Father Rights in Ohio?
The birth father’s rights depend on his relationship with you and the baby.
A birth father MUST consent to adoption if:
- He was married to you when the baby was conceived or born
- He’s listed on the birth certificate
- A court has determined he has a parent-child relationship with the baby
- He has legally acknowledged paternity
A birth father does NOT need to consent if:
- He failed to register with Ohio’s Putative Father Registry within 30 days of the child’s birth
- He abandoned you and the baby
- He failed to provide support or communicate with the child for one year or more
- Paternity testing shows he’s not the biological father
- A court has terminated his parental rights
The Putative Father Registry is a way for unmarried fathers to claim their rights. If a man thinks he might be the father, he can register. If he doesn’t register within 30 days of the birth, he gives up his right to consent to adoption.
Your adoption attorney will help determine whether the birth father needs to consent.
They’ll also help notify him properly if required by law.