Meeting the Requirements to Adopt in Florida

 Posted on July 17, 2024 in Adoption

Prospective parents who are seeking to adopt a baby often worry about whether they will be considered qualified. While the adoption process can be stringent and time-consuming, most stable adults can meet the basic legal requirements to adopt a child in Florida. Approaching an agency adoption can be intimidating, as you will require approval from both the courts and the agency responsible for matching children and parents. It is always best to be represented by an experienced Miami, FL adoption attorney before you start your application. A lawyer can review the requirements with you to help ensure that you are eligible to become adoptive parents before you begin this arduous process. 

Understanding Florida’s Adoption Requirements 

The legal requirements to adopt a child in Florida are fairly basic, although specific agencies may have additional requirements. Generally, you must be able to show that you are: 

• At least 21 years old - Very few agencies will allow people under the age of 21 years old to adopt a child. However, people as young as 18 years old may be able to adopt related children in private adoptions. 

• Financially stable - You do not need to be wealthy, but you do need to show proof that you are financially secure and will be able to provide for your child. Having a source of income and enough disposable income to meet the needs of a baby is normally enough. 

• Mentally and emotionally stable - Simply having a diagnosed mental illness, like depression or anxiety does not mean that you will be rejected. If you have been treated and stabilized for years, you will probably pass this requirement. 

• Physically healthy enough to care for a child - You do not need to be in peak physical shape, just in good enough health to meet the physical demands of childcare. 

• Able to provide a healthy home environment - You will usually need to pass a home inspection. The inspector will want to see that your house is clean, safe, and generally suitable for a child. 

• Able to pass a background check - Minor and long-ago criminal issues, like an old DUI or even a simple assault charge from a bar fight you got once in college, are not likely to pose a substantial problem. However, more serious or recent criminal issues, especially those that involve sex crimes or children, can bar you from adopting. 

The adoption agency might have additional or more specific requirements, and will likely want to conduct a more thorough home study. 

Contact a Miami-Dade County, FL Adoption Attorney

Miami Family Law Group, PLLC is committed to helping prospective parents succeed in agency adoption. Our experienced Miami, FL adoption lawyers are skilled in working with adoption agencies and other professionals to help our clients meet their goal of becoming parents. Contact us at 305-520-7874 for a complimentary consultation.