Legal Question in Family Law in Florida
Custody of Grandchild
Both parents of the child(not married) wish to give custody of the child to myself and my husband(the grandparents)How do I go about doing this and what forms do I need to use?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Custody of Grandchild
Based on your information, you are wishing to adopt your grandchildren. You should contact the Clerk of Courts in the county for adoption forms. There may a family law agency, legal aid, Dept of Childen & Families or other agency which could assist you. Basically, you petition the court to allow you to adopt your grandchildren, meaning that the parental rights of the father and mother are transferred to the grandparents. There are forms for the parents to consent to the adoption; these also must be filed with the Petition. A guardian ad litem may be appointed to represent the children during the adoption procedure. The court may authorize a custody evaluation to determine what is in the best interest of the children. Regardless, you are advised to consult with a family law attorney, govt. agency, or other source of advice in helping to guide you through the steps for adoption. Remember that the objective of the process is to serve the best interest of the children.