The decision to place a child for adoption is a difficult (and permanent) one. The birth father, if known, should have a choice in the matter, equal to your own. In several states and specific areas, including Maryland and Washington, D.C., the father must be notified of your intention to give the child up for adoption; or, in some areas, like Virginia, must be advised of the existence of the Birth Father Registry. Adoption attorneys are required to make their best possible effort to locate the birth father using accurate information provided by their client (most likely, you). Using sources like social media accounts and background checks, along with internet searches, the attorney will attempt to locate the father. However, if all these efforts are exhausted and the father is still unavailable, you may still be able to pursue adoption.