One of the most common questions that women who are considering adoption ask is, “if I give my baby up for adoption, do I have to go to court? Will the baby’s father have to go to court?”

That’s a great question. While adoption is a legal process that does involve court hearings, birth parents do not typically have to attend any court proceedings.

I’ve you’ve chosen to place a baby for adoption in Florida, you may sign a consent for adoption 48 hours after the baby is born or upon discharge from the hospital, whichever comes first. The birth father may sign a document stating that he is not claiming paternity of the child before birth, or sign a consent for adoption after the baby’s birth. Once those documents are signed, there is no need for the birth parents to go to court.

So, if you are considering adoption for your child, you most likely do not have to worry about making a court appearance. In fact, if you chose to have a closed adoption and do not desire any contact, you typically will not have to have any further contact once your paperwork is signed. However, you may choose to have an open or semi-open adoption wherein you meet the adoptive family and maintain a relationship with them. This can include visits and phone calls, or updates in the form of pictures or letters as your baby grows. And no matter which level of contact you choose, you can still participate in our adoption support group.

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy right now and need someone to talk to about your options, please reach out to us at The Adoption Law Offices of Madonna M. Finney. We are an all-female staff, well-versed in Florida Adoption law, who are here to help you determine whether adoption is right for you and your baby. If you decide it is, we’re here to support you every step of the way and guide you through the adoption process.

Reach out to us via text or call any time at 850-308-1836. You can also message us on Facebook. We’re here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!