[FL] What forms are need to complete a stepparent adoption?
19
7
To complete a stepparent adoption in Florida, you’ll need to gather a few specific forms. These include:
- Joint Petition for Adoption by Stepparent
- Consent and Waiver by Parent
- Consent of Adoptee – required if the child is 12 or older
- Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Affidavit
- Civil Cover Sheet
You may also need the Indian Child Welfare Act Affidavit.
Upvote if this is a clear answer
Downvote if this is not a clear answer
Full Conversation
How hard is it to give up parental rights willingly to a stepfather if the stepfather wants to adopt the child? They reside in Florida.
I understand this must be a difficult situation for you. Has the stepfather expressed his desire to adopt the child to you or the other parent?
Yes.
Are both biological parents in agreement about the adoption and termination of parental rights?
Yes.
Is there anything else the family lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with parental rights termination.
Yes.
Thank you for choosing AskALawyer! My name is Jessica, and I am a licensed attorney assisting you with your question.
I am so sorry there is an issue with stepparent adoption. Do all parties agree on the adoption?
Yes.
In Florida, giving up parental rights willingly to a stepfather for the purpose of adoption is a serious legal process that requires court approval. While it’s not as difficult as other types of adoption, it’s not automatic.
Both legal parents must consent to the termination of parental rights. However, there are circumstances where consent may be waived if the biological parent cannot be found or has abandoned the child.
What is required if both parties agree to it?
The biological parent (the other parent) must voluntarily sign a document relinquishing their parental rights. You may contact the clerk of court for the form.
What other documents are needed besides that one form?
To complete a stepparent adoption in Florida, you’ll need to gather a few specific forms. These include:
- Joint Petition for Adoption by Stepparent
- Consent and Waiver by Parent
- Consent of Adoptee – required if the child is 12 or older
- Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Affidavit
- Civil Cover Sheet
You may also need the Indian Child Welfare Act Affidavit.
Once the forms are filled out, what do we do next?
They are filed with the clerk of court in the county where the child is a permanent resident.
Are these forms available online to download?
Yes, they are available for you to download. You can type in the name or form number for each one into the search bar on your computer, and you will be able to download a PDF copy.
Please let me know if I may be of assistance in the future. Thank you.
