Jan 21, 2026
Why do I have to wait 30 days after the termination proceeding to finalize my adoption?
Sue’s Answer: Florida Statutes §63.122 provides that for cases that are not categorized as stepparent, relative or adult the “hearing on the petition to adopt a minor may not be held sooner than 30 days after the date the judgment terminating parental rights was entered . . . ” The 30-day timeframe allows for any appeal to be filed by the biological parents, and the hearing can be set only if no appeal is filed. If no appeal is filed, your finalization hearing date will be scheduled on the first hearing date the Judge has available after the 30-day timeframe has expired. It is important to note that the timeframe is from “rendition” of the judgment, which is when the clerk of court dockets the signed order. This generally occurs on the same day the judge signs the order, but there are sometimes delays.
More about Sue: Sue is a senior paralegal supervisor and has been Jeanne’s “right hand” since the inception of the firm with an unsurpassable dedication to her career and the clients we serve.
Sue is primarily responsible for termination of parental rights proceedings, contested matters, and training law firm and agency personnel. Sue has been heavily involved in some of the most significant adoption cases in Florida and has participated in over a thousand adoptions. She is married, has an adult son and daughter, and is enjoying her three grandchildren.
