Child Adoption Options in Florida
Florida laws are still very restrictive in terms of the rights of non-biological parents to adopt a child.
- A stepparent cannot adopt a stepchild without the formal legal consent of the biological parent. The biological parent must formally surrender his or her parental rights in order for the adoption to proceed. If the biological parent refuses to surrender his or her parental rights, it is very difficult to legally terminate parental rights unless the biological parent is a danger to the child.
- Same-sex couples cannot adopt children under the laws of the state of Florida. The Florida law specifically states that "homosexual" persons are ineligible to adopt a child.
- Non-married couples may not adopt a child. For example, a live-in boyfriend may not adopt his girlfriend's child unless they first get married.
- A single person is eligible to adopt a child in Florida.
- Grandparents may only adopt a child if both biological parents surrender their parental rights. If both biological parents voluntarily surrender their parental rights, then a grandparent adoption can be a fairly straightforward process. However, if either biological parent objects to the adoption, then it can be extremely difficult to force termination of the biological parent's parental rights unless the parent is a danger to the child.
Adoption Services at the Law Office of Cohen & Storie
At the Law Office of Cohen & Storie, located in Orlando, Florida, our attorneys have extensive experience representing couples in both family and private adoptions. We can help smooth the way and guide you through the process of completing an adoption — and our lawyers can give you practical advice early on if you believe the adoption process might run into difficulties relating to the child's biological parents.
What About Visitation Rights?
Sadly, under Florida law, stepparents and grandparents do not have any legal rights to visitation with a child unless and until they complete the formal adoption process. If you are concerned about visitation rights with a child to whom you are not related as a legal parent, our office may be able to help you negotiate a private visitation agreement — but no such visitation agreement may be ordered by the court without the approval of the biological parents.
Contact the Law Office of Cohen & Storie
For more information about family or private adoptions, or to get specific advice about your particular circumstances, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Call 407-246-0888 or send us an e-mail.
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