whom the birth mother believes is right for her child. The birth mother decides how much involvement she wants to have in the selection process and how much contact she wants to have with the prospective adoptive parents. Steve and Joel represent hundreds of prospective adoptive parents and continue to have a large selection of adoptive parents who are ready and willing to adopt. A licensed, child-placing agency thoroughly investigates and counsels each prospective adoptive family. The investigation includes verification of both individual and marital stability, sound financial resources, and the good health of the family. Additionally, Steve and Joel require counseling of the adoptive parents to be sure that they will see the baby as their own child, that they understand the importance of, and the ways of telling the child about adoption, and, most importantly, to make sure the family understands the tremendous love and sacrifice that a birth mother makes in pursuing an adoption plan for her child.

Can the birth mother choose the adoptive parents?
Yes. Unless a birth mother is referred by adoptive parents whom she would like to have adopt her child, a birth mother may specify the type of family she wants for her baby. Steve and Joel will provide information about a number of families having the attributes and qualities she seeks. The birth mother may speak with the family by telephone or in person to satisfy herself that she has chosen the "right" family for her baby.

Does the adoptive birth mother have to live in, or move to, Indiana in order to work with Kirsh & Kirsh?
No. Steve and Joel prefer that the birth mother stay where she is comfortable. If that is in another state, they will coordinate efforts with another attorney or licensed, child-placing agency to provide the best service possible to the birth mother. If the birth mother lives in Indiana, Steve and Joel will meet with her in person, either at their office, her home, or at any other place that is convenient for her.

Does the birth mother have to pay legal fees and expenses?
No. The prospective adoptive parents pay all fees and expenses, including medical expenses. The birth mother pays nothing.

Can the birth mother see the baby after it is born?
Yes. The birth mother determines how much contact she would like to have with the baby. Some women want to spend a lot of time with the baby, while others choose to have very limited, or no contact.

Does the birth mother receive updates from the adoptive parents after the baby is born?
Yes. If the birth mother requests them, the adoptive parents will provide updates by way of letter or photographs, or both, at least during the first year after the baby is born. Steve and Joel tailor the update arrangements to meet the comfort levels and needs of both the birth mother and the adoptive parents.

Are any court appearances required?
No. There is no court appearance for birth mothers required under the laws of the State of Indiana.

Does the baby go to a foster home?
No. The baby goes directly from the hospital to the adoptive parents' home, not to a foster home.

Why do women make adoption plans for their children?
Because they love them. Birth mothers want more for their children than they can provide for them at that moment in their lives. They want to assure a bright future and a loving, happy home for their children.