[Archive]

Originally Posted By Brenda

Gay woman residing in Florida. Can I adopt either domestically or internationally. Do I have any options on adoption? Is there any way around the system?

Thanks

Brenda

[Archive]

Originally Posted By Greg Franklin

As you undoubtedly know, Florida is one of the few states that actually prohibits Gay and Lesbian adoptions. You have several options, though. One is to adopt in another state that permits Gay and Lesbian adoptions. New York and Texas are two states which permit non-residents to adopt in that state, so long as the adoptive child is a resident of that state; there are other states which probably permit this, too. Since the adoption is finalized in the child's home state, Florida has no say in the matter.

Another choice is to adopt internationally.

The potential problem with either of these options is that you must have a home study prepared, which would need to be done in your home state. You would have to find a sympathetic social worker who would give short shrift to your sexuality, and focus instead on your desire to be a parent.

A third option might be to be a biological parent yourself, through a sperm donation (assuming, of course, that you want to and are physically able to do so).

I recommend that you speak with a Florida attorney who is familiar with adoption-related issues; you might find a local attorney at www.adoptionattorneys.org, or I would be happy to recommend local counsel if you would prefer.

Please let me know if you have any questions and if I may be of any assistance.

Greg Franklin

Please note that this communication does not establish an attorney-client relationship between the parties to this message. Any comments or recommendations made in this communication are of a general nature, are based upon the limited information provided to the addressee, and are not to be construed as legal advice.

[Archive]

Originally Posted By Linda Lach

I echo what Greg said, and just want to add that adoption is possible in Hawaii if the child is born or placed here, regardless of your state (or country) of residence. This is also true, I believe, of Oregon and Washington.