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

An expectant mother can receive money for medical expenses, legal services, counseling services, living expenses not to exceed ninety days before and forty days after the birth or surrender of the child.

Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-1-109(a)(B) (2020)

Will I be offered my own Tennessee adoption lawyer?

“If the person surrendering the child states a desire to have legal counseling prior to or during the execution of a surrender directly to the prospective adoptive parents, the prospective adoptive parents shall, if so requested by the surrendering person or persons, compensate the attorney for such counseling sought, which must be completed before the surrender can be executed”

Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-1-111(l)(2) (2020)

How does Open Adoption work in Tennessee?

Open adoptions are not prohibited but are not enforceable in Tennessee.

Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-1-121(f) (2020)

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

How does the legal process for adoption work in Tennessee?

Consent may be made after the birth of the child in the presence of a judge.

Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-1-111(b-d) (2020)

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

Consent may be revoked within three days of giving consent and any time prior to the entry of an order of confirmation of the parental consent by the court.

Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-1-112(a) (2020)