Being “matched” is one of the most meaningful moments in the adoption process. For expectant parents, it often comes with a mix of relief, uncertainty, and thoughtful consideration. For prospective adoptive parents, it can feel like a long-awaited milestone finally within reach. The match represents a new phase of the adoption process that focuses on preparation, communication, and legal protection for everyone involved.
Here’s what families and expectant parents can expect during the match phase of the adoption process:
Understanding What “The Match” Means
A match occurs when an expectant parent and a prospective adoptive family agree to move forward together with an adoption plan. This decision can be based on a variety of factors like shared expectations, communication preferences, and values. While expectant parents retain full rights until after the child is born and legal consents are signed in accordance with Indiana state law, the match kicks off the rest of the adoption process.
Building a Relationship
After a match, parents may begin communicating more regularly. In open or semi-open adoptions, this may include phone calls, texts, video chats, or in-person meetings. The purpose of these communications is to build trust, establish expectations, and support both sides to feel comfortable moving forward.
Level of contact is always based on mutual agreement. Some expectant parents prefer frequent communication, while others choose more limited interaction. Both approaches are valid, and boundaries can evolve over time. Your adoption professional and attorney will help navigate you through these conversations so everyone feels supported.
Ongoing Support for Expectant Parents
For expectant parents, the period after a match often includes continued access to counseling, medical care coordination, and support services. In Indiana, certain pregnancy-related expenses—such as medical care, counseling, and limited living expenses—may be covered as permitted by law.
This time is also an opportunity for expectant parents to continue refining their adoption plan. Preferences around hospital arrangements, time with the baby after birth, and post-placement contact can all be discussed and documented.
Legal Preparation and Documentation
Behind the scenes, your adoption attorney plays a critical role after the match.
Legal preparation includes:
- Reviewing and coordinating any necessary agreements
- Ensuring all expenses comply with Indiana law
- Preparing consent and termination of parental rights documents
- Coordinating timelines for court filings and finalization
For adoptive families, this phase is about ensuring everything is in place legally and ethically. For expectant parents, it ensures rights are protected and decisions are made with full information and consent, allowing everyone to move forward with care.
Preparing for Placement
As the due date approaches, planning becomes more concrete. This may include discussing hospital preferences, who will be present at birth, how placement will occur, and how communication will be handled moving forward. These details are deeply personal and should always reflect the expectant parent’s wishes.
Adoptive families often use this time to prepare emotionally and practically, finalizing childcare plans, preparing their home, and staying flexible as timelines can change.
After Birth and Legal Consents
After the child is born, Indiana law requires specific waiting periods and procedures before legal consents can be signed. An adoption attorney ensures these steps are handled correctly and compassionately. Once consents are signed and accepted by the court, the adoption moves toward placement and finalization.
Moving Forward With Clarity and Care
The time after a match is filled with anticipation and many important decisions. Having experienced legal guidance and compassionate support can make all the difference in navigating this phase with confidence.
At Herrin & Leach, we guide expectant parents and adoptive families through every step of the adoption process, ensuring the process is legally sound and centered on the well-being of the child. If you have questions about what happens after matching or want to better understand your adoption, our team is here to listen and provide clear, thoughtful guidance. Schedule your free, confidential consultation today.