Adoption for LGBTQ+ Couples
Let Our Panama City Family Law Attorneys Help You
In Florida, same-sex couples were banned from adopting children. However, the Florida Court of Appeals declared that the law banning gay and lesbian individuals from adopting was unconstitutional. Then in January 2015, same-sex marriage was legalized nationwide. While we are making progress in granting LGBTQ+ full rights and equality, the laws remain in constant evolution and restructuring, creating legal concerns.
At Virga Law Firm, P.A., we are dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ couples fulfill their dreams of becoming parents. Our Panama City LGBTQ+ adoption lawyers can offer comprehensive legal guidance to help you navigate through the complexities of the law and adoption process.
Understanding your rights is important. Call (800) 822-5170 to speak with our team today.
The Adoption Process For LGBTQ+ Couples
The following are three types of adoptions available for LGBTQ+ couples:
- Joint adoption by married LGBTQ+ couples - Only married LGBTQ+ are eligible to pursue joint adoption. Unmarried couples are not allowed to adopt in Florida.
- Single adoption by a LGBTQ+ parent - For those who are not married, but want to be a single parent, in order to go through the adoption process, they may adopt through a private agency or the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). The DCF process entails attending classes, going through interviews, answering questionnaires, and scheduling a home visit. While private agency process is less meticulous, it is more expensive.
- Second parent adoption - Where one person is allowed to adopt the child of his / her spouse.
100+ years Of Combined Experience On Your Side At All Times
Due to the ever-changing landscape of laws regarding LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, our Panama City family law attorneys can keep you up to date in order to accomplish your adoption endeavors. We are immensely proud to serve the LGBTQ+ communities and our firm is available 24/7 to our clients for any questions or concerns.
Contact our firm and schedule your confidential consultation today.
Our Core Values
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The Client Comes First and All Else Will FollowWe take pride in delivering best-in-class client service and experience, understanding the privilege and responsibility we have when assisting clients and their families through legal matters. It is our highest obligation.
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Authenticity and TransparencyWe believe in being transparent about who we are, with ourselves, each other, and our clients and partners. This authenticity builds trust and fosters strong relationships.
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Relentless Pursuit of the WinWe achieve stellar results by focusing on personal and professional performance and goals. Our relentless pursuit ensures we deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients.
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Growth MindsetWe continuously learn, grow, and improve as individuals, as a law firm, and as advocates for our clients. We set and exceed both personal and professional goals to ensure ongoing development.
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OwnershipWe take responsibility for our work and actions, ensuring accountability in all that we do. Our commitment to ownership drives excellence and fosters a culture of trust and reliability.
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Results DrivenWe focus on outcomes and disregard the level of effort required. We have the vision and the discipline to do the work and face challenges to make our vision a reality for our clients.
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Respect and Celebration for One AnotherWe support each other with kindness and respect, emphasizing a positive work culture and celebrating along the way. We respect our clients and support them through their challenges.
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Unquestionable IntegrityWe stand up for what’s right with consistently sound ethics and courageous honesty. Our integrity is the foundation of our practice and guides our actions and decisions.
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We are in it TogetherWe are client and team-focused, committed to the firm’s vision, and act for the greater good. We carry our weight, bring others along, and act with civility, candor, and respect in all interactions.
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ReputationReputation is everything. We strive to have the best personal and professional reputations. We want our reputation to precede us and for opposing counsel to know we are committed to fighting for our clients.
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Community StewardshipWe embody the concept of giving back to the community. The Virga Law Firm is committed to supporting and improving the community through responsible and caring actions, setting an example of character.