Joe Cordell Offers Advice To Birth Dads In Chicago Tribune

Joe Cordell Offers Advice To Birth Dads In Chicago Tribune

Chicago TribuneCordell & Cordell Principal Partner Joe Cordell was recently quoted in an article published in the Chicago Tribune titled, “Birth dads still fighting for bigger role in adoption process.”

The story details how biological fathers traditionally have been overlooked during in adoptions. However, that is gradually changing.

Although historically adoptions have primarily included the child, adoptive parents and  birth parents, birth dads are starting to participate more and more in the adoption process, but the burden is still on him to prove paternity.

Joe Cordell

Cordell & Cordell Principal Partner Joseph Cordell

Many states also have putative father registries, which involve varying rules and procedures depending on the state. The registries’ deadlines, and an overall lack of  knowledge that the registries exist, also work to squeeze birth fathers out of the process.

In the article, Mr. Cordell recommends doing whatever is necessary to stay on amicable terms with the birth mother while going through the adoption process.

“Avoid conflict (put three exclamation points here) with the birth mom,” Mr. Cordell said. “She can make this difficult for you by saying you’re not the father. When there’s a conflict, the birth mom wins.”

Click here to read the full article.