Orlando Adoption Attorney
If you are having trouble conceiving a child of your own or you simply want to make a difference in the life of a child who is unwanted by their birth parents, you may be considering adoption. Adoption allows a person to be a parent to someone else’s biological child. It also allows a child to have a stable, loving home with a single adult or couple who has the emotional intelligence and financial ability to do so.
Adoption can be exciting but nerve-wracking. You may have a lot of questions about the process. You may wonder if you even qualify. That’s why you need experienced legal help on your side. Orlando adoption attorney Steve W. Marsee, P.A. Attorney at Law has knowledge of Florida adoption law and can address your questions and concerns.
Adoption Requirements in Florida
Those looking to adopt often work with an adoption agency that can help them find the right child for their household. The agency you choose should provide you with the help and resources you need to make informed decisions. While each agency may have its own criteria for adoption, there are some general requirements for those looking to adopt in Florida.
You may wonder if you can adopt if you are not married. While Florida does allow single and married people to adopt, some agencies have stricter requirements. For example, some require couples to be married for at least two years. So it can definitely vary.
While same-sex couples were once banned from adoption in Florida, that law was repealed in 2015. This means that a person of any sexual orientation should be able to adopt a child in the state.
Florida does not have specific laws regarding the age of the adoptive parent. However, each agency will likely have a minimum age requirement. For some, it is 21 years old. In the United States, there is no law specifying an upper age limit of the adoptive parent. This means that those in their 50s, 60s, and beyond may be eligible to adopt, although the agency may have limits.
While you do not need to be rich to adopt a child, you do need to be financially stable. The adoption agency will want to know that you are living within your means and do not have excessive debt. The agency will perform a credit check and verify your income to ensure you can financially care for a child.
If you have a criminal background, you may worry about adoption. Everyone in the household who is over the age of 12 will require a background check. If there are criminal offenses such as drugs, violence, abandonment, neglect, or domestic or child abuse, the family will be disqualified.
Contact Us Today
Adoption can be an exciting journey, but it comes with challenges. It’s important that you understand the laws and requirements involved.
Orlando adoption attorney Steve W. Marsee, P.A. Attorney at Law can answer your questions and help you feel confident about the process. Get started by scheduling a consultation. Fill out the online form or call 407-521-7171.
