Tampa Adoption Attorney
Adopting a child is a blessing and a joyous way for people to become parents or to add onto their family. However, adoptions are also a legal matter and they must comply with Florida family law, regardless of the type of adoption. There are many different types of adoptions in the state. Two adults may have wanted to become parents for years but have been unable to do so. Or, family issues may require a child to live with another relative who is not their biological parent. Regardless of the reason for the adoption, it is always important to work with a Tampa adoption attorney who can help you through the process.
Types of Adoptions in Tampa
In Florida, as in most other states, adoption is the term used when an adult becomes the legal guardian of a child that is not biologically theirs. After an adoption is finalized in Tampa, the adoptive parent is officially the legal parent of the child and has all of the same rights and responsibilities towards the child as a biological parent. There are many different types of adoptions in Tampa and they are as follows:
- Stepparent adoption, when a stepparent legally adopts a stepchild,
- Grandparent adoption, when a grandparent legally becomes the parent of their grandchild,
- Relative adoption, when any other relative of the child legally becomes their adoptive parent,
- Foster care adoption, when a child is adopted through the Florida Department of Children and Families foster care system,
- Adult adoption, when an adult child is adopted by an adoptive parent,
- International adoption, when a parent in the United States adopts a child from a foreign country,
- Agency adoption, when a private agency oversees the adoption process,
- Open adoption, when the biological and adoptive parents openly share information and both have contact with each other and the child, and
- Closed adoption, when there is no contact between the parties and information is not shared with the biological parent.
Requirements for Adoption in Tampa
Other than being an adult, there are no age limits on the adoption process in Florida. People also do not have to be married or cohabitating with someone in order to adopt. Single people are allowed to adopt children, as well. There are also no income limits on the adoption process.
One of the most important requirements for adoption is the home study, although this is not always necessary. For example, a stepparent adoption does not usually require a home study. When a home study is required, you will need to prove that you can provide a safe, stable, and healthy home environment for the child and that you will be able to meet their needs. An adoption attorney can help you through the process.
Contact Our Adoption Attorney in Tampa Today
You should never go through the adoption process alone. At Florida Law Advisers, P.A., our Tampa adoption attorney can guide you through it so you obtain the best possible outcome. Call us today at 1 (800) 990-7763 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
