Instituto Cândida Vargas outlines legal adoption process for mothers in João Pessoa

The Instituto Cândida Vargas (ICV), a leading maternity hospital in João Pessoa, Brazil, clarified the legal steps for women who wish to place their newborns for voluntary adoption. The procedure is governed by Law No. 13.509/2017, which amends the Child and Adolescent Statute and sets out a formal, confidential process.

At any point—from prenatal care to post‑delivery—mothers receive qualified counseling, privacy protection, and assistance from ICV staff. After the initial meeting, the institute notifies the Vara da Infância e da Juventude, which oversees the legal proceedings, checks for possible placement with extended family, and ensures the rights of both mother and child are upheld. Technical director Tatiana Fragoso emphasized that the process is handled with respect, secrecy, and a humanized approach, distinguishing it from illegal abandonment.

The guidance aims to inform families about their legal options and to promote safe, regulated adoptions within the Brazilian legal framework.