Do I Need the Father’s Consent to Place My Baby for Adoption?

One of the most common — and confusing — questions birth mothers ask is:

“Can I place my baby for adoption if the father isn’t involved?”

The answer depends on your state’s laws, your relationship with the baby’s father, and whether paternity has been legally established. But here’s the good news:

You may still be able to create an adoption plan — even if the father isn’t in the picture.

At Adoption Network Law Center (ANLC), our legal team helps birth mothers across the U.S. navigate this question every day, with compassion and clarity.

Let’s break down what you need to know.

First, Know This: You Have Rights

You have the right to explore adoption as a legal and loving option — even if:

• The father is absent, unknown, or unsupportive
• He refuses to communicate or denies paternity
• You fear conflict or unsafe consequences if you involve him
• You’re not sure who the father is
• You don’t feel emotionally or physically safe involving him

Do I Legally Need His Consent?

This depends on a few factors:

Your state’s adoption laws

Some states require notice or consent from the birth father under certain circumstances. Others do not — especially if the father has not legally established paternity or provided support during pregnancy.

Whether paternity has been established

If he’s signed a paternity acknowledgment, is named on the birth certificate, or has registered with a Putative Father Registry (if your state has one), he may have legal rights that need to be addressed.

The level of involvement

If the father has not made reasonable efforts to support you or the baby during pregnancy, a court may determine that his consent is not required.

What Is a Putative Father Registry?

Some states have a Putative Father Registry — a system where men can voluntarily declare they may have fathered a child.

If a potential father doesn’t register within a certain time frame (often before the baby is born or shortly after), he may lose the legal right to object to the adoption.

Our team will help you determine whether your state uses this system and how it affects your situation.

What If the Father Is Abusive or Threatening?

Your safety is our top priority. If you fear for your well-being or don’t feel safe contacting the baby’s father, we can:

• Provide confidential legal guidance
• Work with an attorney to handle notification (if required) on your behalf
• Request court approval to proceed with the adoption if it’s in the best interest of the child

What If I Simply Don’t Want Him Involved?

You’re not alone. Many women feel this way — especially if the relationship has ended, was casual, or brings up painful emotions.

We will never pressure you to involve someone who makes you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. We’ll simply explain your legal options based on your state’s laws and support you either way.

Key Adoption Agency Considerations

The adoption process is deeply personal, and every situation is unique. You do not need to have all the answers right now — just the right team to guide you.

Whether the baby’s father is supportive, absent, or somewhere in between, we’ll help you understand your rights and create a plan that prioritizes your safety, your child’s future, and your peace of mind.