Step-Parent Adoption (Child) Packet
Packet Fees
| Description | Fee | Due When |
|---|---|---|
| Packet | $14.00 | At time of filing |
| Filing Fee | $400.00 | At time of filing |
| Copies to be Served | $1.00/page (approx. $7.00) | At time of filing |
| Issuance of Summons | $10.00 | At time of filing |
| Fee to Sheriff or Process Server | Varies starting at $40.00 | Not due at time of filing |
Included Forms
This packet contains the following forms:
- Civil Cover Sheet
- Notice of Limited Services Provided
- Joint Petition for Adoption by Stepparent
- Summons
- Consent and Waiver by Parent (2)
- Consent of Adoptee (If Child Is Over 12 Years of Age)
- Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Affidavit
- Indian Child Welfare Act Affidavit
- Email Service Address (Required – Choose One)
- Motion for Search of the Putative Father Registry
- Department of Health – Certified Statement of Final Decree of Adoption (Required)
Required Documents:
- Copy of your Florida driver’s license (You must be a Jackson County resident to file for a name change in this county.)
Do not sign these forms unless you are in the presence of a notary public! We can notarize your signature in the Circuit Civil/Family Law Department.
When all forms have been completed, please return them to the Circuit Civil/Family Law Department of the Jackson County Clerk of Court, along with your filing fee of $400.00. Your case will be forwarded to the Family Court Specialist for review. You may check back with a Deputy Clerk in 2 to 3 weeks for the status of your case.
It is your responsibility to call the Circuit Civil/Family Law Department (850) 482-9552 to find out the status of your case. When the file is procedurally correct, a final hearing will be scheduled.