Adoption Attorneys

At St. Johns Law Group, we offer experienced and compassionate legal representation for individuals and families pursuing adoption in Florida. Whether you are considering agency, step-parent, relative, or adult adoption, our attorneys are here to guide you through this complex process with professionalism and care.

We also represent clients in actions to terminate parental rights.

What is Adoption?

Adoption is the legal process through which a child becomes a permanent member of a family other than their birth family. Once finalized, adoption severs the legal rights and responsibilities of the birth parents and creates a permanent parent-child relationship with the adoptive family.

For adoptive parents, this means full legal responsibility and parental rights—just as if the child were born to them biologically. For the child, it offers a permanent, nurturing home. While most adoptions are closed, open adoptions may allow for some continued contact with birth parents.

Who Can Adopt in Florida?

Adults residing and working in Florida who are of good character and can support and nurture a child may be eligible to adopt. This includes:

• Single individuals

• Married couples

• Stepparents (step-parent adoptions)

• Relatives

• Adults adopting other adults

Note: While state law historically prohibited adoptions by homosexual individuals, recent court decisions have deemed such bans unconstitutional.

Types of Adoption in Florida

Florida recognizes four primary types of adoption:

1. Entity Adoption – Through an agency or attorney (intermediary)

2. Step-Parent Adoption

3. Close Relative Adoption

4. Adult Adoption

Each type has specific procedures and requirements. Our attorneys can help determine which type fits your situation and ensure compliance with Florida law.

Termination of Parental Rights

Before any adoption can be finalized, the legal rights of the biological parents must be terminated—either voluntarily (via written consent) or involuntarily (through court proceedings based on abandonment, neglect, or abuse).

Florida has established grounds for termination of parental rights.

Important notes:

• Consents must follow Florida’s statutory requirements to be valid.

• Consents are generally irrevocable after signing (with exceptions for fraud or duress).

• For children under six months old, the birth mother must wait 48 hours post-birth or until hospital discharge to sign consent.

• Children 12 years or older must also consent to their own adoption unless waived by the court.

Florida’s Putative Father Registry

Unmarried biological fathers must register with Florida’s Putative Father Registry to preserve their rights. Failure to register may result in the loss of parental rights without notice.

To preserve their rights, biological fathers must:

• Register before the filing of a termination of parental rights petition

• Respond within 30 days to a Notice of Intended Adoption Plan

• Maintain updated contact information with the registry

Adoption Procedures

Pre-Placement

• Home Study: Required for non-relative adoptions, conducted by licensed social workers or mental health professionals.

• Consents & Notices: All legal consents must be properly executed, and notices provided to any legal or putative fathers.

Placement & Monitoring

• The child must reside with the adoptive family for at least 90 days before the adoption can be finalized (exceptions apply for relative and stepparent adoptions).

• Agencies or intermediaries will monitor the placement with monthly visits, including at least one in-home visit.

Finalizing the Adoption

Once all pre-requisites are met:

• A petition for adoption is filed with the court (usually within 60 days of terminating parental rights).

• A final hearing is scheduled. Adoptive parents must appear, though remote appearance may be allowed.

• Upon court approval, a Final Judgment of Adoption is issued, granting full parental rights to the adoptive parents.

Post-Adoption Effects

• A new birth certificate is issued, listing the adoptive parents as the child’s legal parents.

• The child receives a new legal identity, including name change if desired.

• Adopted children have equal legal status to biological children, including inheritance rights.

Adoption Reunion Registry

Florida maintains an Adoption Reunion Registry for adoptees and birth parents who wish to reconnect after the adoptee turns 18. Participation is voluntary and may be updated by either party until the child reaches adulthood.

Legal Support for Your Adoption Journey

Adoption is one of the most rewarding—and legally complex—processes a family can undertake. At St. Johns Law Group, we are committed to making your journey as smooth and informed as possible. Let our experienced adoption attorneys help you navigate Florida’s legal landscape with confidence and care.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward growing your family through adoption.