Safe Surrender Laws vs. Adoption in Sacramento County: Which is Right for You and Your Child?
If you’ve landed on this page, you’re probably going through a difficult time. If you’re overwhelmed and feel like you can’t care for your newborn, that’s ok. Sacramento County’s Safe Surrender law lets you walk away safely — but same-day adoption lets you walk away with support, choice, and a future plan you control.
With this guide, you can learn which option is right for you, and how to access your chosen service. We’ll explain how Safe Surrender works in Sacramento, and how same-day adoption can give you added support, choice, security and peace of mind.
Comparing Safe Surrender and Same-Day Adoption in Sacramento County
While both Safe Surrender and same-day adoption protect you from legal consequences and ensure your baby is safely cared for, there are important differences in the experience and support each provides:
- Support: Safe Surrender offers legal protection, but no emotional or financial help. Same-day adoption includes housing, medical, and emotional support.
- Choice: Safe Surrender places your baby into the foster care system with no input from you. Same-day adoption allows you to choose the adoptive family and stay connected, if desired.
- Confidentiality: Both are confidential. Sacramento County Child Protective Services (CPS) only reveals information if you volunteer it or there is a compelling reason, like a family member inquiry.
If you want to stay involved, protect your privacy, and receive support, same-day adoption gives you more compassionate and empowering options. You can even pick who ends up raising your child.
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Safely Surrendered Baby Law in Sacramento County
The California Safely Surrendered Baby Law ("Moses Law") allows birth parents to legally and anonymously surrender a baby up to 72 hours old at a Safe Haven site, like a hospital or fire station, without facing criminal charges.
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How to Use the Safe Surrender Law in Sacramento County
Step 1: Act quickly — Safe Surrender is only available for babies 72 hours old or younger. If your baby is older, or if you want more control and support, same-day adoption may be a better alternative.
Step 2: Go to a designated Safe Surrender site in Sacramento County as soon as possible. These sites include hospitals and fire stations that are legally prepared to take your baby safely and without judgment.
Step 3: Hand your baby directly to an employee on duty — this ensures they are received safely and with care. Never leave your baby unattended, as doing so can delay help and create unnecessary risks.
Step 4 (Optional): Fill out a confidential medical questionnaire. This optional form helps medical professionals provide the best care for your baby in the short and long term. You are not required to give your name, ID, or any personal details.
Step 5: Leave knowing your baby will be cared for in a safe, secure environment by professionals trained to protect their well-being. While this may be one of the hardest choices you’ll ever make, you can walk away knowing your child is in good hands.
What Happens After You Use Safe Surrender in Sacramento County?
After you safely surrender your baby, they will receive immediate medical care if needed and be taken into custody by Sacramento County Child Protective Services (CPS). From there, your baby is either placed in foster care or with a pre-approved adoptive family.
You have up to 14 days to change your mind and reclaim your baby, but after this window, your parental rights are permanently terminated and you will no longer be involved in decisions about your child’s future.
Same-Day Adoption in Sacramento County
What if you could surrender your child today, but got to choose their adoptive family and whether or not you'll stay in contact with them?
Safe Surrender is an option for emergencies, but it’s not your only option. Adoption through a licensed agency can be completed in a similar amount of time at a location near you, and provides much more control and even financial aid. Our agency offers:
- The ability to choose the family who raises your child
- Financial assistance for rent, food, utilities, and medical care
- The option for post-adoption contact and updates
- Peace of mind knowing your baby goes directly to a loving, screened family — not into foster care
Choosing adoption means choosing support, control, and a loving future for your baby.
How to Start a Same-Day Adoption in Sacramento County
Step 1: Contact a licensed Sacramento County adoption agency (That’s us!). We’re here to listen, support, and help you understand all your options with zero pressure or judgment.
Step 2: Speak with a compassionate adoption specialist available 24/7. Whether you're still weighing your options or ready to move forward, we're here to answer your questions and support you every step of the way.
Step 3: Choose a family from a wide list of fully screened, waiting parents. You’ll have the chance to review detailed profiles, ask questions, and select the family you feel is best suited to raise your child.
Step 4: Sign adoption paperwork with legal support and protection. Our licensed professionals ensure you understand every step of the process and that your rights are fully protected.
Step 5: Receive ongoing support before, during, and long after the adoption takes place. From housing and counseling to legal and emotional guidance, you’ll never walk through this process alone.
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Why Many Women in Sacramento Choose Adoption Over Safe Surrender
Adoption is more than a safety net. It’s a powerful way to take control of your future and your baby’s life.
With adoption, you can:
- Stay in control of your experience
- Choose the perfect family for your child’s future
- Receive financial help for pregnancy-related expenses
- Build a relationship with your child if you want
Birth mothers often say they felt more confident and at peace knowing they had a say in their baby’s future. You can have that too.
You Have Options in Sacramento County
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and wondering what to do, know this: you’re not alone. Choosing Safe Surrender can protect your baby. Choosing adoption can empower you and give your child the life you dream of. You’re not giving up. You’re giving love, opportunity, and a bright future. Most importantly, the choice is yours.
Same-Day Adoption Locations in Sacramento County
If you need help, or if you want to talk through your options, visit our office in Sacramento County. Our staff can help you access the services you need, or even start a same-day adoption.
Sacramento Office
9700 Business Park Dr #403, Sacramento, CA 95827
1-800-ADOPTION
Safe Surrender Locations in Sacramento County
Hospitals and Fire Departments in Sacramento County are all designated safe surrender sites, along with some police stations. Below are lists of Fire Departments and hospitals with addresses and phone numbers:
Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.
