If you cannot find the father, and the court decides that your adoption agency or lawyer tried hard to find him, the adoption can take place without him. You will need to sign a statement saying that you alone have custody of the baby.

Important! Do not lie about the father’s name or location. If you do, the court may decide later that the adoption is not valid. If you are worried about getting the father involved for any reason, talk to your adoption lawyer or adoption agency about it.