North Fort Myers Private Adoption Attorneys

Helping Families Through the Adoption Process in Lee and Charlotte Counties

At Daniels Law, P.A., we understand that adoption is a lifetime decision that requires careful consideration. We are here to help guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you find the right family for your child.

Our firm has helped hundreds of families through private adoptions. We are proud to be one of the largest and most experienced private adoption firms in the state of Florida. Daniels Law, P.A. is also the only firm in the state to have been awarded the highly coveted 5-Star rating by Avvo, the world's largest lawyer rating site.

What Is a Private Adoption?

A private adoption is an adoption in which the birth mother chooses the family for her child. In a private adoption, the only parties involved are the birth mother, the adoptive family, and a licensed adoption agency or attorney. The birth mother makes all the decisions regarding the adoption, including the final decision to place the child with the family and has up to 48 hours after the child is born to finalize the decision.

What Are the Adoption Process Requirements in Florida?

Adopting a child in Florida can be a lengthy process. The process can take anywhere from one year to several years, depending on the situation. The time it takes to complete an adoption largely depends on the age of the child and the type of adoption.

Domestic Adoption

• The birth mother must be at least 16 years old (or 15 with parental consent).
• The birth mother must live in Florida or must have lived in Florida at some point during her pregnancy.
• The birth mother must be unmarried, not in a relationship, and must have consent from the father for the adoption. 
• The birth mother must be mentally competent and must not be using illegal drugs during the pregnancy.
• The birth mother must be willing to release her child for adoption.
• The birth mother can choose the adoptive family.
• The birth mother must attend counseling sessions.

Does Florida Have an Open Adoption Law?

Yes, Florida has an open adoption law, which allows for some form of contact between the birth mother and the adoptive family.

Types of Open Adoptions:

• Direct contact – The adoptive family and the birth mother can exchange information and pictures.
• Indirect contact – The adoptive family and the birth mother can exchange information, but not pictures.

Request a consultation with our Fort Myers private adoption attorneys by calling (239) 766-6510 today.