What If The Birth Mother Will Not Say Who The Birth Father Is?
What If The Birth Mother Will Not Say Who The Birth Father Is?
In Virginia Adoption Law, birth fathers have full parental rights. Consequently, a birth mother has no legal right to conceal the identity of the birth father. They must either consent to the adoption in writing or be served with notice of the adoption.
The biggest single risk to the legal security of an adoption is if a birth mother commits fraud by not identifying the birth father. If she does, it may be possible for the birth father to later attack the adoption.
It is a terrible tragedy for everyone involved if adoptive parents have to give up a child whom they have come to love. For this reason, it is essential for a competent adoption professional to sensitively counsel the birth mother as soon as possible.
About the Author: The Irving Law Firm - John Irving
John Irving brings a working knowledge of all aspects of the legal process to any case or client with his extensive and eclectic legal background. In 1997, John received his undergraduate bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Shortly after graduation he began work as a fraud investigator for the City of New York. John handled thousands of cases involving welfare and housing fraud. Following this position, he was recruited to and employed by the Prince William County Police Department where he exhibited his superior abilities and received several commendations and awards.
