What to Avoid & Red Flags to Look For
At Covenant Care, we believe adoption should always protect a woman’s dignity, never exploit her circumstances. Sadly, not every person who claims to “help” with adoption has your best interests in mind. Some unlicensed facilitators, lawyers, or even families use pressure, false promises, or money to take advantage of women in vulnerable moments. That’s why transparency and trust matter.
As a licensed nonprofit agency, Covenant Care puts women first: we walk with you at your pace, explain your rights clearly, and provide free counseling and support before, during, and after adoption. Learn more about how to spot people who may be trying to take advantage of your situation or decision, even if it seems safe. Ask good questions and trust your instincts.
Red Flags in Adoption Professionals and Things to Avoid
1. Unlicensed “facilitators” or “consultants”
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If the person is not a licensed agency, lawyer, or social worker, they may be operating illegally.
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Phrases to watch for: “We’ll connect you with a family quickly” or “We don’t have to follow the same rules as agencies.”
2. Promise of big money or gifts
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It’s illegal in most states (including Georgia) for a birth mother to receive money beyond reasonable pregnancy-related expenses.
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Red flag phrases: “We’ll pay you thousands” or “You’ll be set financially.”
3. Pressure tactics
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Ethical agencies remind you that adoption is your choice — and you can change your mind before signing.
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Red flag language: “You have to decide now,” “Don’t wait too long, families are lined up,” or “You’ll regret keeping your baby.”
4. Lack of transparency about your rights
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A good agency explains your rights clearly, including your right to counseling, medical care, and to choose the adoptive family.
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Scammers avoid paperwork, discourage questions, or rush signatures.
5. No counseling or emotional support offered
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Ethical agencies like Covenant Cares provide counseling before, during, and after adoption.
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Red flag: “We don’t really do counseling — we just handle the legal stuff.”
6. Unclear or sketchy legal process
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If they can’t explain when your parental rights are terminated or what the state law requires, that’s a major warning.
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Red flag: “Don’t worry about the legal part — we’ll take care of it.”
Red Flags in Adoptive Families / “Middlemen”
Families or lawyers who try to connect with pregnant women through Craigslist, Facebook groups, or DMs instead of licensed agencies.
Families who offer cash, cars, or housing directly in exchange for adoption.
Anyone who refuses to provide proof that they are working with a licensed agency or attorney.
Shady Language Often Used by Scammers
“Fast and easy adoption process.”
“You’ll get lots of benefits for placing.”
“Don’t talk to agencies — we’ll give you a better deal.”
“No need for lawyers or courts.”
What Women Should Look For Instead
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A licensed nonprofit adoption agency, like Covenant Cares
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Transparency: everything is explained clearly in writing and with people who will walk you through it.
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No pressure: the process moves at the birth mother’s pace and she can change her mind at any time.
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Support services: free counseling, medical resources, and post-adoption support from the adoption agency.
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Respect: language that emphasizes the woman’s dignity and choice.
Remember, if someone offers you cash, cars, housing, or “special perks” in exchange for adoption — it’s a scam. A real agency supports you, not buys your baby.
Adoption is a big decision. You or your child should never be seen or treated as a commodity. We understand the complex emotions and reasons that go into any pregnancy decision and are here to walk you through all your options - adoption, parenting, and abortion - and provide transparent information so you can make an informed choice.
No pressure. No gimmicks. Just the care, respect, and honesty you deserve.