Adoption Lawyers in Jacksonville, Florida
Looking to Adopt? Call Our Attorneys Today: (904) 770-3141!
At Owenby Law, P.A., we can help with all of your adoption needs, from the termination of parental rights up to the final adoption hearing. We have the experience and knowledge to make the adoption process flow as smoothly as possible. We will personally oversee the development of your case and help you gather all the necessary paperwork. Nothing brings us greater satisfaction than helping families grow through adoption.
We assist families with all types of adoptions, including:
- Adult adoptions
- Step-parent adoptions
- Foster child adoptions
- Relative adoptions
- Grandparent adoptions
- Foreign adoptions
Are you a step-parent or relative who is looking to adopt? A relative or step-parent adoption is a one-step process by which we move straight to petition for adoption. The normal adoption process includes a home study, a petition for termination of parental rights and trial, a 30-day appeal period before being able to file your petition, and a second adoption trial. However, a step-parent adoption works a little differently.
What is required to adopt a child?
For the most part, any Florida adult who lives and works in the state and shows the ability to care for a child may be allowed to adopt. While there are few universal requirements for a Florida state adoption, the agency you choose will often have their own rules about who can adopt. There are also many steps involved in any adoption decision, including a comprehensive review of your financial status and a full criminal background check.
Here are some of main requirements for a Florida adoption:
- You must be a legal adult over the age of 18.
- You must pass a required adoptive parent training class with the appropriate state agency.
- You must complete a 90-day “home study” with a licensed clinical social worker and mental health professional.
- You must pay any court fees and costs during the adoption process.
To learn more about the adoption process, give us a call at (904) 770-3141 contact us today.
How much does it cost to file adoption papers in Florida?
On average, Florida courts charge between $350 and $450 in filing fees for adoption cases, but be sure to ask your local court for the most up-to-date information. Court fees are an often overlooked part of the adoption process- make sure you know how much the court requires.
Can you adopt if you have been arrested?
A full background check is required for all members of your household over the age of 12, and while being arrested or convicted may not automatically disqualify you from adopting a child, it could present some unique challenges. Additionally, those who have been convicted of child or domestic abuse, child abandonment or neglect, violent crimes, and drug-related offenses may be disqualified from adoption by most agencies.
When working with Owenby Law, P.A., it’s important to share all information about your past arrests or convictions with our attorneys. During your confidential consultation, we will give you an honest assessment of the challenges you may face during the adoption process.
Can the parents take the child back?
If you are adopting a child within the state of Florida, then the biological parents must have terminated their rights to the child by the time they are put up for adoption. Biological parents also cannot take the child back once the adoption process has been finalized.
Do you have to be married to adopt?
No. Any unmarried adult may adopt children, provided they meet all the requirements for adoption. Additionally, both single and married LGBT individuals may now adopt in the state of Florida.
Call (904) 770-3141 or contact us online for a free initial consultation with our Jacksonville adoption lawyers.
Owenby Law, P.A. is Committed to Protecting Children in Flori
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A long-time children's rights advocate, Attorney Joy Owenby has handled juvenile law cases of abuse, neglect, and abandonment. She served as legal counsel for the state of Florida Guardian Ad Litem Program and has represented children in child custody battles in her family law practice. Under her skilled direction, our legal team of Jacksonville adoption attorneys works diligently to help children find safe and happy homes.
Why Should You Hire Owenby Law, P.A.?
- Our services are backed by over 19 years of experience
- We will get you started with a free initial consultation
- We have already helped thousands of families in Florida
- Our entire team will work together on your case
If you are ready to get started on the adoption process, take the first step by contacting Owenby Law, P.A. Your initial consultation is free, so you would have nothing to lose by giving us a call. We have helped thousands of clients throughout Florida with various family law matters, and now we are ready to do the same for you.
We are available to serve clients from four convenient office locations in Jacksonville, Fleming Island, St. Augustine and Orange Park. Give us a call at (904) 770-3141 today!
