When Adoption Faces Unexpected Challenges: Legal Insight and Support

Recently, Jeanne T. Tate, Board Certified Adoption Attorney at Tate Healey Webster, was interviewed by Action News Jax to provide legal context in a complex adoption case out of Jacksonville. The story involved a family seeking to dissolve their adoption placement after years of challenges. You can view the story here. (When adoption turns dangerous: One Jacksonville family’s desperate plea for help – Action News Jax)

While the headline may suggest otherwise, we firmly believe that adoption is not “dangerous.” It is overwhelmingly a positive, stable, and loving path for building families. But like any family journey, adoption can present unexpected challenges—and when that happens, we believe in thoughtful, child-centered solutions.

Though rare, there are cases where adoptive families find themselves in crisis, often due to unresolved trauma, behavioral needs, or a lack of post-placement support. These situations can be emotionally overwhelming for everyone involved. But there are resources designed to help—both to preserve the adoption when possible or to responsibly transition a child to a new home if needed.

One organization we recommend is Chosen (Chosen Care: Support Services for Adoption, Kinship, Foster Parents), which specializes in supporting adoptive families who are on the brink of disruption. They offer remote, trauma-informed coaching with a remarkable track record: over 80% of families who go through their program are stabilized and remain intact.

Another option, when reunification isn’t possible, is to seek a new permanent family through a re-adoption. Organizations like 2nd Chance Adoption Program at Wasatch International Adoptions (2nd Chance Adoption | Wasatch International Adoption) can assist with identifying qualified adoptive placements when families make the incredibly difficult decision to pursue a legal second adoption.

What often gets overlooked in public conversations is the role of experienced legal guidance. When families turn to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) out of desperation, the process can become more difficult and traumatic for everyone—especially the child. But when adoption attorneys are involved early, there are more options, more safeguards, and more compassion woven into the process.

In her interview, Jeanne emphasized that families in distress are not alone—and that there are better alternatives to disruption through foster care. She helped explain the legal avenues available to families who are truly struggling and the steps that can lead to a stable outcome for everyone involved.

Adoption is built on love, commitment, and deep responsibility. At Tate Healey Webster, we understand that sometimes, even with the best intentions, families face unforeseen challenges. We believe that with the right support, most adoptive placements can and should succeed. But when they don’t, families deserve access to ethical, child-focused options.

We’re proud that Jeanne could contribute to this important conversation—and we remain committed to supporting adoption practices that are compassionate, informed, and deeply respectful of the lifelong impact these decisions carry.