HEARTLAND ADOPTION AGENCY

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Heartland Adoption Agency

Expert home studies, trusted background checks, and compassionate adoption matching—all in one place

Our Practice Areas — Your Path Forward

Expert guidance through every type of adoption, tailored to your family’s unique story.

Home
Studies

Connecting Birth Mothers
with Adoptive Families

Criminal History
Checks

Where Families Begin Their Story

Complete adoption services from Indiana’s caring professionals

Heartland Adoption Agency provides comprehensive adoption services throughout Indiana. Our dedicated team specializes in home studies, criminal history checks, and connecting birth mothers with loving adoptive families. With over 15 years of experience, we guide you through every step with compassion and expertise.

What Our Clients Say

Heather Hirst

AMAZING!! Don is not only helping us with the adoption of our son, he has kept us informed throughout the entire process. He treats us more like family than a client. Thank you, thank you, thank you for making our dream to be a family a reality!

Jill Spears

We have had nothing but a great experience with Heartland Adoption. Don Francis puts his heart and soul into each separate case. They staff is amazing. They make you feel like family.

Meta Reedy

Michelle and team were fantastic to work with throughout our adoption process. We worked with them on and off for a little over two years and now have a beautiful and amazing daughter thanks to their help! They made this difficult process easy.

Michelle Berry Domer, J.D.

Adoption Specialist

After 20 years in family law, Michelle discovered that adoption cases were her most rewarding work. In 2009, she co-founded Heartland Adoption Agency to focus exclusively on building families. Michelle personally guides birth mothers and adoptive families through their adoption journeys with compassion and understanding. She ensures every family receives the support they need during this transformative experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Making an adoption plan is one of the most loving and courageous decisions you can make for your child. We’re here to help you understand the process and your options.

Financial Support & Medical Care

Can I receive financial assistance during my pregnancy?

Yes. Indiana law allows adoptive parents to provide financial assistance to birth mothers during the second trimester of pregnancy and continuing until six weeks after birth. This assistance can help with living expenses during this important time.

How will my medical expenses be paid?

Your medical expenses related to pregnancy and delivery can be paid by the adoptive parents. This includes prenatal care, hospital costs, and postpartum care.

What expenses can adoptive parents help with?

Beyond medical expenses, adoptive parents may assist with maternity clothing, utilities, rent, food, and transportation costs related to your pregnancy and the adoption process.

Understanding Open vs. Closed Adoption

What is the difference between an open and closed adoption?

Closed Adoption means there is no contact with the adoptive parents or child after the consent for adoption has been signed. All identifying information remains confidential. Open Adoption allows some level of contact negotiated between you and the adoptive parents, ranging from annual photos and letters to in-person visits and ongoing relationships. The specific arrangement is entirely up to you and the adoptive family to decide together.

Can I change my mind about how open the adoption is later?

Open adoption agreements are based on trust and good faith between both parties. While the level of contact can be adjusted if both parties agree, it’s important to discuss expectations clearly from the beginning.

Choosing Adoptive Parents

Do I get to choose the adoptive parents?

Yes! You have complete control over choosing the family who will adopt your child. You’ll review family profiles and select the family that feels right to you. You can meet them in person if you wish before making your final decision.

What if I don't connect with the first family I meet?

That’s completely okay. You can review as many family profiles as you need until you find the right match for your child.

Legal Representation & Your Rights

Do I get a lawyer to represent me?

Yes. If you wish to have a lawyer represent you throughout the adoption process, the legal fees may be paid by the adoptive parents. Having your own attorney ensures your rights are protected and that you fully understand every step of the process.

When do I sign the consent for adoption?

In Indiana, a birth mother cannot sign consent until after the birth of the child. Hospitals usually require a 24 or 48 hour waiting period. This gives you time to spend with your baby and be certain of your decision.

Can I change my mind after signing consent?

Indiana law has specific timeframes for revoking consent. It’s important to understand these rights before signing, which is why having your own attorney is so valuable.

Father's Rights

Does the father have to consent to the adoption?

If you are married, your husband is presumed to be the legal father and will need to consent to the adoption or have his rights terminated by the court. If you are unmarried, it is not necessary for the biological father to consent if he has not preserved his rights according to Indiana law, including registering with the Putative Father Registry.

What if I'm not sure who the father is?

You are not required to name a father if you don’t know who he is. Your attorney can help you navigate this situation.

Other Options

I want to keep my baby but cannot take care of it right now. What are my options?

If you want to maintain your parental rights but need temporary help, you may be able to set up a guardianship with a family member. This allows someone else to care for your child temporarily while you retain your legal rights as a parent. Guardianships can be reversed when you’re ready to parent again.

What is the difference between guardianship and adoption?

Guardianship is a temporary arrangement where you retain parental rights and can regain custody. Adoption is permanent, and parental rights are terminated and transferred to adoptive parents.

Getting Started

How do I begin the adoption process?

Contact Heartland Adoption Agency. We’ll meet with you to discuss your situation, answer all your questions, and help you understand your options. There is no obligation, and all conversations are confidential.

What if I'm still unsure about adoption?

That’s completely normal. We’re here to provide information and support, not to pressure you. Take the time you need to make the decision that’s right for you and your baby.

Is there any cost to me?

No. Birth mothers do not pay any fees for adoption services. All costs are covered by the adoptive parents.

Have More Questions?

If you have additional questions or would like to speak with someone confidentially about your options, please contact Heartland Adoption Agency.