What is an "independent" or "private" adoption?

What is an "independent" or "private" adoption?

Jennifer Perry (Executive Director, Children's Action Network) gives expert video advice on: Do adoptive parents cover any of the birthmother's expenses?; What is "baby-buying"?; Should I be concerned about which hospital the birthmother chooses? and more...

An independent adoption is an adoption that takes place without the use of an adoption agency. Often the services of an attorney will be employed, but this type of adoption is without an agency. In some instances, there are people who may not want to work with an agency. Perhaps they feel that it can be less burdensome and less tedious, and the adoption process could be faster.