Florida Stepparent Adoption Lawyer
Relative Adoption Lawyers in Green Cove Springs
At Haslett Law, we know that adopting a stepchild, grandchild, or another
family member can be one of the most rewarding and emotional times of
your life. We can help you work through the confusing array of details
involved in adoption as a step-parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, sibling,
or another relative. As Florida's
family laws have changed over the years, experience and knowledge become more and
more important to make sure the process is followed correctly and the
adoption is legal. Our experienced Clay County stepparent adoption attorneys
can explain the adoption issues to you, prepare the necessary filings,
and represent you at required hearings.
Contact us at (904) 299-1188 today for a free case consultation.
Eligibility for Adoption
When you’ve been living together as a family, making it official and legal can offer security and peace of mind. At Haslett Law, we take pride in helping you accomplish that. Adopting a stepchild or close blood relative may be fairly swift once all consents have been obtained and the petition has been filed. The petitioner must provide proof that parental rights have already been terminated or that all necessary consents have been given.
In this case, notarized consent may need to be obtained from:
- The child, if over the age of 12
- Biological/birth mother
- Anyone legally entitled to custody
- The court, if the physical custodian does not have legal authority
- Biological/birth father (with exceptions)
Florida's Kinship Adoption Laws
Kinship adoption, asked called relative adoption, can include adoption by an aunt, uncle, or the child's grandparents. According to Chapter 63 of Florida Statutes, adoption by family members is a simplified process that can eventually award those family members legal and parental rights.
Is Consent Needed for Kinship Adoptions in FL?
Consent may be waived by the court for some cases, including:
- If the biological parent has abandoned or deserted the child
- Parental rights were already terminated by a court of law
- If a biological parent is deceased, a death certificate may be submitted in place of consent.
When complications arise, it can often be from errors in filing, or from not obtaining the proper consents. Our knowledgeable stepparent adoption lawyer in Clay County can guide you through the steps and advocate on your behalf. You can count on Haslett Law to advise you and get the process done, legally and correctly, for you and the child.
Seeking to legally adopt your stepchild, grandchild, or another relative? For experienced and knowledgeable counsel, contact us now.
How We Stand Apart
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Over 20 Years' Combined Legal Experience
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Advocates for Both Family Law & Criminal Defense
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Very Accessible & Responsive
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Husband & Wife Lawyer Team
Client-Centered Philosophy
Hear About It Directly From Our Clients-
“I don’t know where to begin in thanking Betsy for her services. She helped me through a very trying time in my life. Her professional experience in family law is tremendous & it shows with her ...”
- Former Client -
“I was referred to Betsy Haslett by an attorney at a large Jacksonville business. I live in North Carolina and desperately need legal help with two separate family emergencies in Florida. Betsy helped ...”
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“During a difficult time in my life Haslett law guided to make the best decisions possible for my family's future. I am so glad that I chose Haslett law.”
- Chantel -
“JR went above and beyond to see our case through. Even after our family member botched up the initial deal that had been struck, he stepped in when he didn’t have to and re negotiated another ...”
- Tom -
“Haslett Law exceeded my expectations by always showing a sincere interest in me and providing sound solutions to my problems. No matter the amount of calls or emails, they were diligent in responding ...”
- Tangie