The Adoption Process in Florida for Expectant Mothers
Are you pregnant and considering adoption in Florida? If so, you probably are curious about what the adoption process in Florida actually looks like. In this blog post, we’ll do our best to break it all down for you. However, every adoption situation is unique, so your path may look a little different than the one outlined below.
Step One: Understanding The Adoption Process in Florida
Once you’ve decided to place your baby for adoption, it can be difficult to know where to start. In the beginning, there are often more questions than answers. How will you find adoptive families in Florida to consider? How will you know which one is the right one for your baby? Do you want to stay in touch with the adoptive family after placement? The caring and knowledgeable staff at ACF Adoptions would be happy to help you sort through these sorts of questions. In addition, we’ll walk you through every step of the adoption process in Florida. We want you to feel confident in your choices and make the best decisions possible for both you and your baby.
Step Two: Putting an Adoption Plan in Place
Every expectant mother – and her circumstances – is unique. Therefore, we’ll work with you individually to determine the best adoption plan. We can help you determine whether or not you’d like an open or semi-open adoption, or would prefer a closed adoption. We will also help you gain access to the financial assistance and support you need – financially for pregnancy-related expenses, as well as emotionally through ongoing counseling.
Step Three: Choosing an Adoptive Family
When going through the adoption process in Florida, one of the most important decisions you will make is deciding who will raise your little one. As a licensed adoption agency, ACF can help you find a loving adoptive family that will care for your child as their own. We have a large list of waiting families, who are all screened and home-study approved to adopt in Florida. Therefore, no matter which adoptive parents you choose, you can rest-assured that you made the right decision for your child’s future.
Step Four: Delivery Day
As soon as you let us know that you are in labor, an ACF counselor will be available to give you all the support you may need. We can even help you arrange transportation to and from the hospital. If you have an open adoption, you may choose to call the adoptive family directly, and ask them to visit with you and the baby while you are in the hospital. Once you’ve given birth, you can see, feed and hold the baby, if you wish. You may also name your baby at the hospital. However, once the adoption process in Florida is complete, it is up to the adoptive parents to decide on keeping the name or giving the baby a new name.
Step Five: Making Your Final Decision
It’s important to know that even though you’ve made an adoption plan, you are not legally obligated to choose adoption. Under Florida law, until you sign the adoption consent forms, you have the right to change your mind about placing your baby for adoption. If you do decide to parent your child, ACF would happily help you find community resources that may be available to you.
Step Six: Completing the Adoption Process in Florida
After giving birth, you must wait 48 hours following the birth of your baby, or sooner if you were medically discharged, to sign the legal consent for adoption. Once this document is signed, then the adoption is legally binding.If you choose to still sign the legal consent for adoption, the baby will immediately go home with the adoptive parents upon discharge. It’s important to remember that ACF Adoptions only works on private adoptions. This means if you place your baby with our assistance, they will not have to go through the foster care system. In addition, you will not be required to appear in court.
Step Seven: Coping with Adoption
You are not alone. Many other women have faced this same difficult decision. That being said, it’s never easy. Therefore, ACF’s caring counselors will help you throughout the pregnancy, after the adoption, and at any time in the future. We are here to support you throughout the entire adoption process in Florida and beyond.
Ready to Start the Adoption Process in Florida?
If you are pregnant and considering adoption, or simply need help understanding the adoption process in Florida, contact ACF Adoptions today. We would be happy to speak with you, and assist you in making an adoption plan. We are here for you 24/7. Everything we discuss is confidential, and completely free of charge.
Text Us: 954-540-2383