Agency Representation
Our team provides guidance to inter-country adoption agencies in a variety of matters related to Hague Accreditation and regulatory compliance. We are uniquely qualified to support and represent agencies, given our team’s prior experience as former agency professionals. We understand the complexities and heightened emotions involved in compliance with inter-country adoption laws and regulations. We have successfully handled both incoming Hague and Orphan (non-Hague) cases, out-going private and foster care placements, and the related immigration issues these situations invoke. We have guided agencies through the Hague Accreditation and Hague Renewal process.
In today’s ever-changing and often turbulent adoption and immigration climate, agencies may find themselves with matters pending before the Inter-country Adoption Accreditation and Maintenance Entity (IAAME) for a variety of reasons. Responding to regulatory requests can be overwhelming for agencies as they continue to conduct their usual business while navigating these legal and regulatory issues. We can help. We offer compassionate, competent and diligent support to adoption agencies. Our affordable consulting services can relieve your agency of the burden of navigating regulatory compliance so that you can concentrate on what you do best – building loving families through adoption.
Given our expertise in Florida adoption law combined with our agency experience, we frequently work alongside out-of-state adoption agencies or attorneys assisting birth or adoptive parents who reside in Florida. Generally, when a birth parent resides in one state and the prospective adoptive parent resides in another state, the adoptive placement must conform to the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC). ICPC is a contract among all 50 states, the District of Colombia and the U.S. Virgin Islands with the purpose of protecting children who are adopted across state lines. We are experienced with ICPC placements (both sending and receiving), choice of law questions, finalizations and general Florida adoption-related questions.
Consulting for Families
You may know that you want to grow your family through adoption, but deciding how to proceed can be overwhelming. We offer a wealth of personal and professional experience in adoption from foster care, international adoption, and domestic newborn adoption.
With more than three decades of experience in the field, we can help you realistically examine your needs, including your financial situation, and guide you down the right path.
Our affordable helps families explore their options, because every child deserves a loving, permanent home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to use an adoption agency? For intercountry adoptions, following the implementation of the Universal Accreditation Act (UAA), all families beginning an international adoption after July 13, 2013, must use an accredited Adoption Service Provider (ASP). However, families who began an international adoption prior to that date may be grandfathered. An adoption agency is not required for Florida domestic adoptions under Florida law, as attorneys can function as adoption entities (intermediaries). There are advantages and disadvantages in choosing either an agency or attorney adoption. We will honestly explore those options with you and recommend agencies we trust should you choose that route. We are well-connectd and well-respected by adoption professionals throughout Florida and the entire United States. Let our relationships work for you.
Can same sex couples adopt? Yes! In September of 2010, Florida became the last state to declare unconstitutional its ban on homosexual adoptions. Same sex couples can build their families through domestic adoption, adoption from foster care, and international adoption from specific countries.
I was convicted of a DUI seven years ago. Will I be able to adopt a child? It depends. Factors that come into consideration include the nature and timing of your conviction and steps you have taken or are willing to take for rehabilitation. Despite a conviction, you may still be eligible to adopt. Your home study provider will make that final determination but we can help along the way.
Is there an income requirement to adopt? There is no legal required minimum income for adoptive parents in Florida. However, you must demonstrate you are financially able to care for any children you wish to adopt. In international or intercountry adoptions where you wish to bring a child to the United States as part of the adoption, you are required by federal law to prove income at or above 125% of the federal poverty level. You may still qualify if you have other assets to support your family or you have a sponsor whose support will bring you up to the requisite income level.
Can I adopt if I already have biological children? Yes. Domestic adoption, adoption from foster care, and many international adoption choices are open to families who have biological children in the home or grown children no longer in the home.
Can I adopt my relative in another country and bring him here? This is a complex question with many variables. We strongly recommend that if you are looking to immigrate a minor relative to the United States through intercountry/international adoption that you take advantage of our extended consultation service to discuss the particular circumstances of your case. Through our consulting services we can determine if your goals are achievable saving your time, money and possible heartache in the long run.
Is there a tax credit for families who adopt? Yes. As of 2018, there is a one-time federal income tax credit available to families who meet specific criteria. The credit is deducted from the amount of income tax you would otherwise owe. Speak to your tax professional for advice.
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