Sometimes a birth parent may change their mind after surrendering their infant. Given the protocols mentioned before that are enacted once the infant is abandoned, it’s not as easy as handing the infant back. Here are the main things to know if this happens.
- It’s important to remember that someone acting in a desperate situation may be able to think more clearly after a state of panic passes.
- Someone who changes their mind should be directed to the Department of Human Services or Human Service Zone office for assistance.
- Under the Baby Safe Haven Law, if an individual contacts the Department of Human Services or Human Service Zone office inquiring about an abandoned infant, the Department or Zone may attempt to obtain information.
- If parental rights have not been terminated by the court, an individual presenting as the birth parent of an abandoned infant will need to work with the Human Services Zone to establish maternity/paternity and work with the agency to assure that the infant would return to a safe home.
