Experienced Fort Lauderdale Adoption Attorney That Can Help Grow Your Family 

If you are a stepparent, grandparent or person who wishes to adopt a child who is not biologically yours, I can help ensure that your process moves forward smoothly.  

I am a Florida family law attorney, Mark E. Sawicki. I founded my firm, Mark E. Sawicki, P.A., to offer personal, one-on-one guidance to my clients in adoption and Florida family law matters. 

Understanding The U.S. Adoption Process 

Deciding to adopt a child is a deeply personal journey, and having an attorney by your side is important. I am here to help you navigate the adoption process so that every requirement is met and your rights are protected. 

When you are ready to adopt, here’s how the process unfolds: 

• I start by helping you with your adoption application to make sure all information is complete and accurate. 

• The state conducts a home study to evaluate your readiness and environment for adoption. I can help you prepare for this step and address any concerns. 

• Once your application and home study are approved, you receive the green light to proceed with adoption. 

• Throughout the process, I provide legal support to handle any issues and pursue a smooth adoption journey. 

Having legal assistance is a must to make this life-changing experience as seamless and rewarding as possible. I can be that person for you, and I’m here to advocate for your right to become a parent. 

Laws That Impact Your Adoption 

In the United States, the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997 is the legal document that guides the adoption process. According to statistical data, since the law was passed in 1997, more children have been adopted from foster care than ever before.  

Information on adoption, licensed adoption agencies and other helpful data can be found on the U.S. government’s “The Child Information Agency” website. I will advise you as to your legal rights and put you in touch with the necessary resources and relevant information. 

Types Of Adoption In Florida 

Our state offers several methods for individuals and families looking to adopt. Each type of adoption has its own unique processes and requirements: 

• Agency adoption: Conducted through licensed adoption agencies, which facilitate the placement of children with adoptive families. 

• Private adoption: Involves direct arrangements between birth parents and adoptive parents, often handled by attorneys. 

• Relative adoption: Allows family members, such as grandparents, aunts or uncles to adopt a child within the family. 

• Stepparent adoption: Enables a stepparent to adopt their spouse’s child, which creates a legal parent-child relationship. 

• Adult adoption: Involves the adoption of someone 18 years or older.  

• Intercountry adoption: Allows U.S. citizens to adopt children from other countries. 

Adoption categories in Florida require specific legal procedures and documentation. I can help you understand the requirements to set the stage for a smooth adoption process. 

International Adoption 

If you are a U.S. citizen, you can also adopt from outside the United States. For these adoptions, it is advisable that you work with a facilitator who will help with translations and transportation arrangements. 

While consulting with government agencies such as the Colorado Department of Human Services or the Council on Accreditation can be beneficial, working one-on-one with a family law attorney can ensure that all your paperwork is accurate and complete. This can save time, fees and headaches. 

Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART) And Preplanned Adoptions 

Not all adoptions happen because biological or genetic parents are unavailable. In some cases, adoption is preplanned to allow intended parents to fulfill their family-building dreams.  

Genetic donor contracts, surrogacy contracts and preplanned adoption arrangements can address legal concerns while also protecting the future child. The Florida law that covers ART-involved families spells out the following: 

The donor of any egg, sperm or pre-embryo, other than the commissioning couple or a father who has executed a preplanned adoption agreement, shall relinquish all maternal or paternal rights and obligations with respect to the donation or the resulting children. 

For assistance putting together a preplanned adoption agreement in connection with an IVF or surrogacy arrangement in Florida, contact me, attorney Mark E. Sawicki. 

Who Can Adopt In Florida? 

Adopting a child in Florida involves meeting specific eligibility criteria set by family law. These requirements exist to protect the well-being of the child. They include: 

• Age: Prospective parents must be at least 18 years old. 

• Marital status: Both single people and married couples can adopt in Florida. Marital status does not restrict eligibility, but if married, both spouses must consent to the adoption. 

• Financial stability: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability and the ability to provide for the child’s needs. 

• Criminal background checks: All applicants must undergo thorough criminal background checks to ensure the safety and welfare of the child. Convictions for violent crimes or child abuse may disqualify applicants. 

• Residency: Applicants must be Florida residents, but there are no specific duration requirements for how long they must have lived in the state. 

• Health: Physical and mental health evaluations are mandatory to ensure that adoptive parents are capable of caring for a child.  

Certain situations may allow exceptions to standard requirements, such as relative adoptions where parental rights have been terminated. If you are unsure if you qualify, don’t hesitate to consult with me. 

Why Choose Mark E. Sawicki, P.A., For Adoption 

Welcoming a new child to your family is one of the most significant decisions you can make, and having the right legal guidance is crucial. As an attorney with extensive experience in family law and ART, I bring a unique blend of knowledge and personalized service to the adoption process. 

Choosing me means you will receive the same care and attention as if you were part of my own family. I want to make you feel supported and understood at every step of the adoption journey. 

Furthermore, my approach is rooted in informed guidance, where I educate you about realistic solutions and navigate tough conversations to help increase your chances of success. When you work with me, you work with a professional committed to your peace of mind who offers personalized representation throughout the entire process. 

Understand The Adoption Process In A Consultation 

Get answers to your questions about preplanned adoptions, stepparent adoptions or other similar concerns during a consultation. 

Call 954-928-9331 or connect with me online. I can answer your Florida adoption, family, divorce and child custody law questions. With offices in Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach Gardens, I help clients throughout the area.