Florida Adoption Attorneys Specializing in Personalized Adoption and Surrogacy

Types of Adoption We Handle in Florida

As a full-service adoption and reproductive law firm, Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. handles every type of adoption matter under Florida adoption law. Our Florida adoption attorneys provide experienced representation across a wide range of cases, including:

• Private adoption and newborn adoption – helping birth parents and adoptive families through private adoption placements and baby adoption in Florida.
• Stepparent adoption – assisting families who wish to formalize the relationship between a stepparent and a child.
• Relative adoption – guiding family members through the legal steps of adopting a relative.
• Adult adoption – handling the legal process of adoption between adults.
• Interstate adoption – managing adoptions across state lines under the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC).
• Contested adoptions, adoption disruptions, and post-adoption matters – providing knowledgeable representation when adoption cases become complex.
• Surrogacy and reproductive law – drafting gestational surrogacy agreements and representing intended parents, gestational carriers, and egg donors.

No matter which path fits your family, our Florida adoption lawyers provide the thorough, compassionate legal representation that adoption and reproductive law cases require.

Pregnant and Considering Adoption?

Embarking on the journey of adoption, especially when pregnant and considering adoption for your child, can be challenging. Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., experienced Florida adoption attorneys, are dedicated to guiding you through this process with compassion and care. Our firm’s private adoption placement program is designed to support you if you are pregnant and considering placing your child for adoption. This program allows you to choose an adoptive family for your child and create a personalized adoption plan tailored to your wishes and needs. If you are considering adoption and looking for adoption help in Florida, our firm provides the resources and support necessary to help you make informed decisions about your child’s future.

Choose Your Adoptive Family

When considering adoption, it is crucial to have a plan that aligns with your desires for your child’s future. With Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., you have the opportunity to choose your adoptive family — to match with a family that resonates with your values and expectations. You will be able to consider factors like the adoptive family’s background, lifestyle, parenting philosophy, and the level of openness you desire in the adoption. Whether you envision an open adoption with regular updates through pictures and letters, semi-open communication, or even annual visits, our Florida adoption lawyers are committed to helping you find adoptive parents who are the ideal match for your child.

Our firm’s expertise in Florida adoption ensures a smooth and respectful matching process. We maintain an extensive network of pre-screened, qualified adoptive families who have completed home studies and background checks, and who are ready to welcome a child into their home. When you work with Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. to find adoptive parents, you remain in control of this deeply personal decision. We present you with adoptive family profiles and support you in selecting the family that feels right for you and your child. This personalized approach to the adoption matching process is central to how our firm operates, and it reflects our belief that birth parents deserve to play an active role in shaping their child’s future.

Financial Assistance and Living Expenses

For those pregnant and considering adoption, it’s important to know that Florida law permits adoptive families to assist with certain living expenses. This assistance may include rent, food, utilities, maternity clothing, transportation, and other necessary expenses as authorized under Florida adoption law. Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. will work closely with you to develop a budget, helping coordinate authorized financial assistance during and after your pregnancy. Additionally, the law allows adoptive parents to cover any pregnancy-related medical costs not covered by insurance, including prenatal care, hospital delivery expenses, and postnatal care, ensuring you receive the medical attention you need without financial stress. All financial arrangements are handled in accordance with Florida adoption statutes and are documented transparently throughout the process.

Emotional Support and Counseling

Choosing to place a baby for adoption is a significant decision, and it’s essential to have access to emotional support throughout this journey. Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. works with compassionate, experienced counselors to provide mental health support, ensuring you feel empowered and cared for every step of the way. Our counseling services are available before, during, and after the adoption placement, because we understand that emotional well-being is just as important as the legal aspects of the process. Whether you need someone to talk to during your pregnancy, support during the hospital stay, or ongoing counseling after placement, our team coordinates these services at no cost to you.

Your Legal Rights in the Adoption Process

Understanding your legal rights is a critical aspect of the adoption process. As Florida adoption attorneys, we will assist you in obtaining independent professional legal representation, at no cost, to guide you through the legal aspects of adoption. Every birth parent has rights under Florida law, and our firm takes great care to ensure those rights are explained, respected, and protected at every stage.

Under Florida adoption law, consent for adoption can only be given after the child’s birth. A birth mother must wait 48 hours after her child’s birth or hospital discharge, whichever comes first, before signing a consent for adoption. Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. ensures that all legal protocols are meticulously followed, respecting your rights and decisions throughout the process. If you choose, the baby can be placed directly with the adoptive family from the hospital. Florida law provides that adoption consents signed for children under six months are binding and irrevocable. For children over six months, a three-business day period (any day U.S. Postal Service accepts certified mail) is allowed for consent revocation. The firm’s expertise in navigating these legal nuances is invaluable for anyone pregnant or parenting a child and considering an adoption placement.

Birth fathers also have rights under Florida adoption law. Our firm addresses putative father rights, the Florida Putative Father Registry, and all necessary legal steps to ensure that an adoption is conducted in full compliance with the law. Whether a birth father is known, unknown, or uninvolved, Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. handles the legal requirements associated with paternal rights and consent to ensure the adoption can proceed properly.

Creating Your Adoption Plan

Creating an adoption plan is a deeply personal decision. An adoption plan outlines your preferences for the adoptive family, the type of adoption you envision, the level of contact you wish to maintain, and any other wishes you have for your child’s upbringing. If you are contemplating this step, Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. is ready to provide guidance, answer your questions, and support you in exploring all options. Our commitment to personal attention, combined with extensive experience in Florida adoption law, makes our firm an exceptional choice for anyone considering adoption. With our assistance, you can embark on this journey with confidence, knowing that your needs and the well-being of your child are of paramount importance.

If you find yourself pregnant and considering adoption, Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. offers a compassionate and professional path forward. Our role as Florida adoption lawyers is not just about legal expertise; it’s about providing a supportive, respectful, and informed environment for you to make the best decisions for yourself and your child. We understand that this is one of the most important decisions you will ever make, and we are dedicated to ensuring that your journey through the adoption process is handled with the utmost care and consideration, honoring your wishes and providing the support you need every step of the way. Contact our office to speak with a Florida adoption attorney who can answer your questions and help you understand your options.

Florida Adoption — Baby Adoption in Florida

Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., an established firm of Florida adoption attorneys, has helped adoptive parents grow their families through baby adoption in Florida for over two decades. Our expertise in Florida adoption law and commitment to facilitating a smooth adoption process have made us a trusted choice for those looking to adopt a newborn in Florida. Whether you are a first-time adoptive parent or expanding your family through adoption, our firm provides the legal guidance and personal support needed to navigate every stage of the Florida adoption process.

Getting Started with Florida Adoption

Florida adoption with Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. begins with an initial application and a personal consultation. Here, prospective adoptive parents can discuss their unique adoption goals and learn about the specifics of Florida adoption law. Understanding these laws is crucial, as they govern every aspect of the adoption process — from eligibility requirements and consent procedures to finalization timelines and post-adoption rights. Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. assists and guides every step of the adoption process, ensuring legal compliance and the best interests of all parties involved. During this initial consultation, our Florida adoption lawyers will explain the different types of adoption available, including private domestic adoption, identified adoption, and agency-assisted adoption, helping you determine which path aligns with your family’s goals.

Birth Mother Outreach and Matching

Once you have decided to proceed with Hausmann & Hickman, P.A., you will enter into our extensive birth mother outreach program. This program is designed to match birth parents with the ideal adoptive family. Our firm’s Florida adoption attorneys are experienced in working with a diverse range of families, including LGBTQ+ families, single and married individuals, and out-of-state families. However, due to matching difficulties, we do not accept adoptive applicants over the age of 50 or gender-specific requests for the adopted child. Our outreach program is one of the ways we help birth parents who are looking to find adoptive parents for their child connect with qualified, loving families who are ready to provide a nurturing home.

Home Study Requirements

An essential part of the adoption process is the home study, which is mandatory for all prospective adoptive parents under Florida adoption law. This comprehensive evaluation includes criminal and child abuse clearances, physical evaluations, and assessments of financial stability. The home study also involves interviews with all household members, a review of your home environment, and an evaluation of your readiness to parent an adopted child. It’s important to note that a home study in Florida is valid for one year, and this is a critical step in ensuring the suitability of adoptive parents. Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. can connect you with licensed home study providers and guide you through the requirements so that you are fully prepared.

Adoption Matching and Wait Times

When considering baby adoption in Florida, many prospective parents are curious about the timeframe for an adoption match. The wait time can vary greatly due to a variety of factors, both controllable and uncontrollable. Preferences set by the adoptive parents, such as the background of the baby and the biological family, can impact the waiting period. Birth parents usually compile a “prospective family list” detailing the qualities they seek in an adoptive family. Families who match these preferences and who have waited longer may be given preference in the matching process. Our Florida adoption attorneys provide ongoing communication and support during the waiting period, keeping you informed and prepared for when a match is identified.

Consent and Finalization Under Florida Law

Under Florida adoption law, a birth mother’s consent for adoption can be signed no sooner than 48 hours after delivery, unless she is discharged from the hospital earlier. For children under six months of age, this consent is permanent and irrevocable once signed, barring cases of fraud or duress. The finalization of the adoption in Florida can occur after a 90-day post-placement supervision period and 30 days following the entry of the Final Judgment Terminating Parental Rights. This typically means that the finalization process occurs approximately 120 days after the child has been placed with the adoptive family. During this period, a post-placement supervision report is completed, and the court reviews all documentation before issuing the Final Judgment of Adoption. Once the adoption is finalized, a new birth certificate is issued reflecting the adoptive parents’ names.

Hausmann & Hickman, P.A.’s approach to baby adoption in Florida is characterized by a deep understanding of the emotional complexities and legal intricacies involved. Our role extends beyond legal guidance; we provide a supportive environment where prospective parents can navigate the adoption process with confidence and clarity. For anyone ready to embark on this life-changing journey or seeking more information about baby adoption in Florida, Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. invites you to reach out to our office. With our expertise and compassionate approach, we stand ready to guide you through each step of growing your family through adoption in Florida.

Why Families Choose Hausmann & Hickman for Adoption Help in Florida

Families throughout Florida and across the country turn to Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. for adoption help because of our firm’s unique combination of legal expertise, personal attention, and decades of experience. As board certified Florida adoption lawyers, our attorneys possess a level of specialization that distinguishes our firm from general practice law firms. Board certification in adoption law is a distinction held by a select number of attorneys in the state, and it reflects a demonstrated mastery of adoption and reproductive law, extensive experience handling adoption cases, and a commitment to ongoing legal education in this specialized field.

Our firm handles every type of adoption matter, including private adoption, agency adoption, stepparent and relative adoption, adult adoption, and interstate adoption. We also assist families with adoption-related issues such as contested adoptions, adoption disruptions, and post-adoption legal matters. Whether you are considering adoption for the first time or have been through the process before, Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. provides the thorough, knowledgeable legal representation that Florida adoption cases require. Our firm’s track record of successful adoptions and satisfied clients speaks to the quality of service and dedication we bring to every case.

For birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone seeking adoption help in Florida, Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. offers consultations to discuss your specific situation and answer your questions. We understand the importance of having an experienced Florida adoption attorney by your side, and we are here to provide the guidance and support you need to navigate the adoption process from beginning to end.

Florida Surrogacy Law — Florida Surrogacy Attorneys

Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. is an established law firm that provides expert legal services in matters of Florida surrogacy and reproductive law. Surrogacy in Florida has become one of the fastest-growing methods of creating a family, especially for those who wish to maintain a biological connection to their child. Florida is widely recognized as one of the most surrogacy-friendly states in the country, with a comprehensive legal framework that supports gestational surrogacy arrangements. Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. has a proven track record in drafting surrogacy contracts, representing gestational carriers and egg donors, and finalizing third-party reproductive arrangements under the purview of Florida surrogacy law.

Comprehensive Surrogacy Representation

When it comes to Florida surrogacy, our firm has represented a diverse range of intended parents, including traditional families, single intended parents, and same-sex couples, both within the United States and internationally. Our expertise in Florida surrogacy law ensures that every agreement we create meets the specific needs of your reproductive arrangement. The Florida surrogacy attorneys at Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. possess extensive knowledge and experience in reproductive law, enabling our firm to craft agreements that thoroughly address the legal rights and responsibilities of both the intended parents and the surrogate mother. This includes compensation terms, medical decision-making protocols, insurance and liability provisions, and contingency planning. Our attention to detail in drafting these agreements ensures that all legal requirements for a Florida surrogacy arrangement are meticulously met.

Legal Requirements for Surrogacy in Florida

With surrogacy in Florida, it’s essential to have separate legal representation for intended parents and surrogates. Although surrogacy arrangements are typically friendly and amicable, it is important to have professionals guide discussions about expenses and potential challenges. Florida surrogacy law stipulates specific requirements for a surrogate, often referred to as a gestational carrier or volunteer mother. These requirements include the surrogate being at least 18 years of age, though most fertility doctors have additional criteria to determine suitability for surrogacy. This typically includes being under 40 years of age, having had 1-3 uncomplicated pregnancies, maintained a healthy lifestyle, and possessed a supportive environment, among other factors. Florida law also requires that intended parents and surrogates enter into a written gestational surrogacy agreement before the commencement of any medical procedures, and that this agreement be executed in compliance with the requirements set forth in the Florida statutes.

The Surrogacy Process with Our Firm

The Florida surrogacy attorneys at Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. do not match intended parents with gestational surrogates. Instead, we handle the legal aspects for clients who have independently found a match or have been matched through a surrogacy agency. Our firm is frequently referred cases from fertility clinics, surrogacy matching agencies, and other attorneys practicing reproductive law but unable to finalize surrogacy arrangements. Once a match is made, we draft a comprehensive contract between the intended parents, the surrogate, and her spouse (if applicable). Our services also include preparing supporting affidavits, medical record releases, and healthcare advance directives, as well as guiding the intended parents’ involvement in the surrogate’s pregnancy and ensuring they are responsible for the child’s medical expenses.

Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. remains actively involved throughout the surrogacy process. From around 24-30 weeks of gestation, we initiate the legal proceedings in Florida to secure a Pre-Birth Order. This order is crucial as it authorizes the intended parents’ immediate access to the child upon birth and directs medical providers to seek payment for the child’s medical expenses from the intended parents. Following the child’s birth, our Florida surrogacy attorneys return to court to request a final order amending the child’s birth certificate to reflect the intended parents’ parentage. This legal process ensures that the intended parents are recognized as the child’s legal parents from the moment of birth, providing clarity and security for everyone involved.

The role of Florida surrogacy attorneys in this process is invaluable. We provide the necessary legal expertise and guidance to ensure that each surrogacy arrangement complies with Florida surrogacy law and that the rights and interests of all parties are protected. Hausmann & Hickman, P.A.’s commitment to our clients extends beyond mere legal representation; we offer a supportive and informed pathway for those seeking to grow their families through surrogacy in Florida. For anyone considering this route, Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. is ready to provide expert legal assistance, ensuring a smooth and legally sound journey towards building your family.

Serving Families Throughout Florida

Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. proudly serves clients throughout the state of Florida, with a particular focus on families in Palm Beach County and the surrounding areas. Our firm has provided adoption help and surrogacy legal services to families in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Wellington, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, Greenacres, Lake Worth Beach, Royal Palm Beach, Riviera Beach, Palm Springs, Belle Glade, North Palm Beach, Lantana, Palm Beach, Lake Park, Tequesta, Pahokee, South Bay, Highland Beach, Juno Beach, Lake Clarke Shores, Loxahatchee Groves, Hypoluxo, South Palm Beach, Palm Beach Shores, Westlake, Haverhill, Mangonia Park, Atlantis, Ocean Ridge, Gulf Stream, and communities throughout South Florida. We also represent clients from other states and countries in Florida adoption and surrogacy matters, guiding them through the specific requirements of Florida law. No matter where you are located, if you are considering adoption or surrogacy in Florida, Hausmann & Hickman, P.A. is available to provide the expert legal guidance you need.

Communities We Serve Across Palm Beach County

Many of the Palm Beach County communities we serve have their own dedicated page with local information about private adoption and the adoption process in that city. To learn more about the area closest to you, visit our local pages for Atlantis, Belle Glade, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Greenacres, Gulf Stream, Haverhill, Highland Beach, Hypoluxo, Juno Beach, Jupiter, Lake Clarke Shores, Lake Park, Lake Worth, Lantana, Loxahatchee Groves, Mangonia Park, North Palm Beach, Ocean Ridge, Pahokee, Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Palm Beach Shores, Palm Springs, Riviera Beach, Royal Palm Beach, South Bay, South Palm Beach, Tequesta, Wellington, West Palm Beach, and Westlake.

Florida Adoption and Surrogacy: Frequently Asked Questions