What is Open Adoption?
Open adoption is a life-changing choice — and in Michigan, you can stay connected to your child and the adoptive family you choose through this modern, empowering path. When you choose open adoption, you’re not “giving up” your child — you’re making a plan that gives them a life full of opportunity and keeps your connection strong.
You’re in control. You choose the family, the relationship, and the future you want for your baby.
Take the first step toward a future filled with love, stability, and connection today by filling out our online contact form.
What is Open Adoption?
Open adoption is a type of adoption that allows ongoing contact between you, your child, and the adoptive family after placement. This could include anything from phone calls and texts to in-person visits.
Historically, adoption was often closed — birth parents had little or no contact after the process. But in today’s Michigan adoptions, that’s changed. Most adoptions are open or semi-open, giving you the ability to stay in your child’s life, if you choose to.
When you make the brave and selfless choice to place your baby for adoption in Michigan, you remain in control of every step — including how much contact you want post-placement. With American Adoptions, your specialist will help you find a family that shares your preferences.
Types of contact can include:
And all of our waiting adoptive families are open to direct communication from the start.
What are the Benefits of Open Adoption?
Open adoption offers you the best of both worlds — peace of mind and a lasting relationship.
- Confidence in your decision knowing your child is safe and thriving
- A lifelong relationship with your child and their family
- Reduced grief and guilt
- The ability to share your story and answer your child’s questions
- Emotional healing and connection
How Does Semi-Open Adoption Work?
Not everyone is ready for full openness — and that’s OK. A semi-open adoption gives you a middle ground.
In a semi-open adoption:
This is different from closed adoption, which cuts off all contact. And while some women still choose closed adoption, most prefer some form of openness today.
Can I Change My Open Adoption Preferences?
Absolutely. If your adoption starts open, you can begin contact whenever you’re ready — right away or months down the line.
If you need time to heal, that’s perfectly OK. Your specialist will help you build a relationship at your own pace.
Here are some tips for navigating open adoption relationships:
- Get to know the adoptive family before the birth
- Set clear expectations together
- Lean on your specialist for support if communication gets tough
Even post-placement, you’re never alone. Your specialist is here for you every step of the way.
Are Open Adoption Agreements Enforceable in Michigan?
No. Michigan law currently doesn’t address open adoption agreements — meaning they are not legally enforceable in court.
That said, your relationship matters. And we make sure that every family we work with is genuinely committed to openness from day one.
Are Post-Open Adoption Contact Agreements Enforceable in Michigan?
Also no. Since 2021, Post-Adoption Contact Agreements (PACAs) are not legally binding in Michigan.
But here’s the difference with us: Our families understand the importance of this connection. If you're not ready to talk with them directly, your specialist can mediate contact. You can even choose to switch from a closed or semi-open to open adoption later — we’ll help you every step of the way.
Get the Support You Deserve
No matter where you’re at in your journey — just finding out you’re pregnant, already a few months along, or even after delivery — we’re here to help you take back control.
You’ll receive:
- Financial assistance for rent, groceries, and more
- 24/7 support from licensed, compassionate professionals
- The ability to choose from the largest selection of screened families.
And most of all, you’ll have the power to decide what’s right for you. The first step toward a brighter future starts with just one message.
What is Open Adoption? [FAQ]
Is Michigan an open adoption state?
Michigan allows open adoption relationships, but it does not legally enforce post-adoption contact agreements. That means all ongoing communication is based on trust and mutual commitment — which is why it’s important to work with an agency like American Adoptions, where families are carefully screened for their openness.
What is the point of an open adoption?
Open adoption gives you peace of mind and ongoing involvement in your child’s life. It allows you to maintain a connection while giving your baby a loving, secure home with a family you choose.
What are the disadvantages of open adoption?
Some birth mothers find that emotions like grief or anxiety can resurface during contact. But with the right support, boundaries, and communication, these challenges can be navigated — and your adoption specialist will help you every step of the way.
What rights do birth parents have in an open adoption?
In Michigan, you retain all legal rights to your child until you voluntarily sign consent to the adoption. After placement, legal parental rights transfer to the adoptive family. However, your contact relationship can continue through open or semi-open adoption if you choose.
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