Understanding Private Adoption Jacksonville, FL with Shorstein & Kelly

 Every child deserves a loving, nurturing home, and private adoption in Jacksonville, FL makes this possible. Private adoption allows birth mothers to actively shape their baby's future and is the preferred route for most prospective parents in Jacksonville, Florida. At Shorstein & Kelly, we have over three decades of experience connecting birth mothers with adoptive families, helping navigate the complexities of the adoption journey.

What is Private Adoption?

Private adoption, distinct from foster care or international adoption, involves a direct arrangement between the birth mother and adoptive parents. Sometimes, the birth mother and adoptive parents already know each other and need assistance navigating the legal requirements. In other instances, the birth mother selects a family from a pool of candidates provided by an agency or with the help of an adoption attorney like Shorstein & Kelly. Regardless of the circumstances, Florida state law governs the process to protect all parties involved.

Types of Private Adoption

Private adoptions in Jacksonville can vary in terms of openness. The birth mother and adoptive parents might meet and stay in contact as the child grows, but this is not a requirement. Private adoptions can be:

1. Fully Open: The birth mother and adoptive family interact, exchange information, and maintain direct contact after the baby's birth.

2. Semi-Open: An adoption professional mediates the exchange of pictures, letters, and information, ensuring the birth mother’s privacy.

3. Closed: The adoptive parents and birth mother have no contact, sharing only medical histories and general physical descriptions.

Private Adoption Requirements

Florida allows both individuals and married couples to adopt children. However, eligibility requirements ensure that prospective parents can provide a safe, stable, and loving home. Interested parties must:

• Be at least 21 years old

• Pass a background check

• Complete a home study

Financial stability is essential, not wealth, but the means to provide for a child’s basic needs. Prospective adoptive parents also need to be in reasonably good health, as birth mothers and adoption professionals seek individuals physically able to care for a child.

The Private Adoption Process

The private adoption process in Jacksonville, Florida, can vary depending on the situation. Generally, private adoption involves several steps:

1. Find an Adoption Attorney: Prospective parents need an adoption attorney to assist with paperwork and guide them through legal proceedings. Shorstein & Kelly's experienced team provides the necessary legal support and ensures compliance with Florida's adoption laws.

2. Create an Adoption Plan: This plan outlines the terms of the adoption agreement and the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. Shorstein & Kelly helps tailor this plan to meet the needs of both the birth mother and the adoptive family.

3. Home Study: Conducted by a social worker, the home study verifies that the environment is a healthy and safe place for the child. Shorstein & Kelly ensures that this process is thorough and meets all regulatory requirements.

4. Court Hearing: A final adoption decree is issued at a court hearing, legally transferring parental rights to the adoptive parents. Shorstein & Kelly represents the adoptive family throughout this process, ensuring a smooth legal transition.

From start to finish, a private adoption may take anywhere from six to twelve months. However, the child is typically placed with the adoptive parents early in the process, allowing the family to bond and start their new life together.

Conclusion

At Shorstein & Kelly, we understand that private adoption in Jacksonville, FL, can seem daunting. Our goal is to make this process as smooth and stress-free as possible for both birth mothers and adoptive families. With over 30 years of experience, our dedicated team provides comprehensive support, legal expertise, and compassionate care, ensuring every child finds a loving and nurturing home.