[texasmom-to-be]

I'm working with an agency in Texas, but was just contacted by the family of a birthmom who lives in Florida. Does anyone know how that works? Would our agency have to be licensed in Florida to do the adoption? If they're not, would the bmom have to move to Texas? Do the same rules apply if you're working with an adoption attorney? I'm trying to do my homework now, because this sounds like possibly an ideal adoption situation that I don't want to lose over red tape.

Thanks.

[Support2Adopt]

Hi!
First you mentioned the family of a Birthmom. Do you mean she has already given birth and relinguished her rights? Or instead are you referring to a potential Birthmother who is considering adoption?
Next, I have to ask why the family of this person made contact, versus the girl herself? (Just being cautious here. Sometimes a family wants someone to place a baby for adoption when the person really doesn't, but feels pressured to do so.)
No, your agency would not have to be licensed in FL for the adoption, but the Birthmother/Potential Birthmother would need representation there, unless she relocated to where you are.
However, she would not need to relocate to Texas.
JJ

[texasmom-to-be]

Thanks for your insight. Yes, she is a potential birthmom who asked her parents to help her with the adoption plans. As I said, we haven't even spoken with her yet, but her mom and I have really clicked, so I wanted to get the homework out of the way in case it does look like a good match when we get further down the road.

By representation, I'm assuming you mean legal representation, right? Our agency already factors in birthparent legal into our adoption plans - we just don't want to have to pay 2 agency fees.

[gigigeorge]

If the birthmother decides to stay and give birth in Florida then you would need to comply with Interstate Compact laws... which means that you would need to hire an attorney in both Texas and in Florida (for the birthmom)... a basic overview of the interstate compact is that the child is placed under the protection of the department of children services (or whatever is the governing authority in FL) while the adoption is pending (which means that it hasn't been finalized in your home state). You will be named as the temporary guardian of the child and as such require permission to leave the state of FL with the child. That's where Interstate compact comes in... they contact the department of children services in TX so that they can assume responsibility for the minor child.... once they do so, you will be cleared to leave FL with the child... this process can take anywhere from 1 day to several weeks... If you do a search for Interstate Compact you will find loads of good information.

or PM me and I will answer any questions you might have !

good luck !

gina

[lisa in venice]

What gigigeorge said except your agency and the FL agency can coordinate the ICPC with both states instead of an attorney. We have had it done by both Attorneys and agencies and it went smoothly both times. If you are already with an agency and the expectent mom is comfortable with the agency there there is no need to involve anyone else.

lisa