Which Path Is Right for Your Family?

As a hopeful adoptive parent, one of the most important decisions you’ll make early on is whether you’re open to an open, semi-open, or closed adoption.

Each option comes with unique benefits, challenges, and emotional dynamics. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the differences can help you feel confident — and prepared — when it’s time to make your decision.

Let’s break down what these terms really mean and how they impact your family and your relationship with your child’s birth parents.

What Is Open Adoption?

In an open adoption, the birth parent(s) and adoptive family maintain some form of ongoing contact, both before and after the adoption is finalized.

This can include:

• Sharing names and contact information
• Direct communication via text, phone, or email
• In-person visits once or multiple times per year
• Ongoing photo and letter updates
• Collaboration on aspects of the child’s upbringing (if agreed upon)

Open adoption is based on mutual agreement and is designed to create connection, transparency, and trust between families.

Benefits of Open Adoption:

• The child grows up with a clear understanding of their story
• Birth parents may feel more peace knowing their child is safe and loved
• Adoptive families may feel more confident answering their child’s questions
• It reduces secrecy and supports long-term identity development

What Is Closed Adoption?

In a closed adoption, there is no ongoing contact between the adoptive family and birth parents after placement.

The identities of each party are typically kept confidential, and there’s no exchange of updates, photos, or communication. This is a more traditional approach and may be preferred in certain legal or emotional situations.

Benefits of Closed Adoption:

• Greater privacy for all parties
• Simpler emotional boundaries for some families
• Preferred when safety concerns or trauma are involved
• Sometimes requested by birth mothers who need distance for healing

Closed adoption does not mean the child won’t learn about their birth story — it simply means the ongoing relationship is not maintained.

What About Semi-Open Adoption?

Semi-open adoption is a middle ground where:

• Communication and updates are shared through a third party (like ANLC)
• Personal details are kept private
• There may be periodic photos or letters
• Direct contact is limited or non-existent

This option allows both parties to stay informed without direct involvement, and it can evolve over time depending on comfort levels.

Are Open Adoption Agreements Legally Enforceable?

It depends on your state.

Some states recognize post-adoption contact agreements (PACAs) as legally binding. Others treat them as informal agreements based on mutual trust.

At Adoption Network Law Center, our legal team will explain your rights and help you develop a contact agreement that aligns with your preferences and the applicable state law.

How Does Adoption Network Handle These Options?

At ANLC, we help you:

• Understand the emotional and legal implications of each option
• Match with a birth mother who shares your preferences
• Create a written plan that respects everyone’s boundaries
• Adjust the contact level over time if mutually agreed upon

We believe open and semi-open adoption can create lifelong connection — but we also respect that every situation is unique, and your comfort matters.

Key Adoption Agency Considerations

Choosing between open and closed adoption is a deeply personal decision. There’s no “right” answer — only the one that’s right for your family and your future child.

With the right support, you can build a plan rooted in respect, clarity, and compassion for everyone involved