The 5 Mississippi Adoption Laws You Need to Know

Adoption laws vary in each state. Everything from a birth father's rights to open adoption can be different from state to state. We've gathered the five most importantMississippi adoption laws you need to know about when considering this for your family.

Top 5 Mississippi Adoption Laws

Birth Father's Legal Rights

Does my baby's father have to agree to the adoption in Mississippi?

Consent to adoption is required of both parents unless a parent’s parental rights have been terminated.

Miss. Code Ann. § 93-17-5 (2019)

Mississippi provides for a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity.

Miss. Code Ann. § 93-9-28 (2019) 

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Expectant/Birth Mother Living Expenses

Can I get help with my living expenses during my pregnancy in a Mississippi adoption?

In Mississippi, an expectant mother may receive money towards related medical, legal, counseling, and living expenses.

Miss. Code Ann. § 43-15-117 (2019)

Separate Legal Representation

Will I be offered my own Mississippi adoption lawyer?

This issue is not addressed under Mississippi law, but you still need to make sure you have your own attorney paid for by the agency or adoptive parents. Any family you choose from AdoptMatch will make sure you have your own attorney.

Open Adoption

How does Open Adoption work in Mississippi?

This issue is not addressed under Mississippi law. This means that any agreement about open adoption inMississippi is based only on a promise, and will not be enforced by a court. It's still very important that whatever you agree to is written down and signed by everyone.

Click here for a map showing which states enforce open adoption agreements.

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How does Consent to Adoption work in Mississippi?

How does the legal process for adoption work in Mississippi?

Consent may be given seventy-two hours after the birth of the child.

Miss. Code Ann. § 43-17-15 (2020)

How long will I have to change my mind about adoption in Mississippi?

Nothing can get aside a final decree of adoption except within six months of entry.

Miss. Code Ann. § 43-17-15 (2020) 

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