The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently sent warnings to 31 adoption intermediaries, cautioning them against deceptive advertising practices. These entities often market themselves as facilitators or consultants for private adoptions, but they are not licensed adoption agencies. This distinction is critical, as licensed agencies, like All About U Adoptions, adhere to strict state regulations designed to protect both birth parents and adoptive families throughout the adoption process.

Unlicensed Adoption Intermediaries

Unlicensed adoption intermediaries often present themselves as reliable adoption professionals, but in reality, they are not subject to the same legal, social work, or educational training requirements as licensed agencies. This lack of oversight can lead to misleading promises about adoption timelines and placement success rates, leaving families vulnerable to emotional and financial harm.

For birth mothers, the emotional toll of adoption is significant, and misleading information can exacerbate their vulnerability. These intermediaries may not offer the essential counseling and legal support required to ensure that birth mothers fully understand their rights, including whether open adoption agreements are enforceable in their state​. Furthermore, birth mothers could be misled about post-adoption support, creating long-term emotional and legal challenges​.

A Disclaimer Doesn’t Count

The FTC’s warnings also emphasized that these intermediaries cannot use disclaimers to shield themselves from liability if their marketing falsely suggests they are licensed agencies. This means that even if adoption intermediaries include disclaimers in their marketing materials (statements meant to limit their liability), they are still responsible for any misleading or deceptive practices. Specifically, if these intermediaries falsely present themselves as licensed adoption agencies, they cannot avoid legal consequences simply by adding a disclaimer that they are not licensed.

The “net impression” of their advertisements is what matters to the FTC. If the overall message gives prospective adoptive or birth parents the wrong idea about their credentials, they could be held accountable for violating consumer protection laws​

Choose a Licensed Adoption Agency

At All About U Adoptions, we are a fully licensed adoption agency, meaning we are regulated by state authorities and must follow strict guidelines to ensure the highest ethical standards. As a licensed agency, we provide a range of essential services, including counseling, legal support, and transparent adoption timelines, while ensuring all parties are fully informed of their rights and responsibilities.

When considering adoption, it is crucial to verify whether the organization you are working with is licensed. Doing so ensures that you are dealing with professionals who are held accountable and trained to handle the complexities of adoption in a lawful and ethical manner.

For families looking for trustworthy and regulated adoption services, working with a licensed agency like All About U Adoptions can make all the difference in navigating the emotional journey of adoption. Always do your research, ask for references, and verify credentials to avoid being misled by intermediaries who may not have your best interests at heart.

Learn more about FTC’s warning from FTC

What are adoption intermediaries telling you

Learn more about FTC’s warning from Federal Newswire

Learn more about the Problem of Unlicensed Adoption Intermediaries and Online Advertising – In this article “Baby Brokers” by the National Council for Adoption, concerns about unregulated adoption practices are highlighted. It critiques the actions of “baby brokers,” intermediaries who exploit vulnerable birth parents and adoptive families for profit, often bypassing ethical and legal standards. The article calls for stronger regulations, increased transparency, and accountability in adoption processes. This ensures that all parties, particularly children, are protected and that ethical adoption practices are upheld.