Safe Havens for Abandoned Newborns

The hospital provides safe haven services for people of all ages in Los Angeles County. Services include safe havens for abandoned newborns. There are no geographic restrictions.

Under the Safe Haven Law, this county designated site accepts newborn babies up to 72 hours old from mothers who want to anonymously relinquish their child. After 72 hours women are not protected under the law. Designated emergency room staff attempt to place a numerically matching ID bracelet on the mother and the baby, and women have up to 14 days to reclaim their child. Women may receive emergency medical attention without the threat of criminal prosecution; however, confidentiality will be compromised. Mothers who surrender a newborn in accordance with the Safe Haven Law are immune from criminal liability for child abandonment.