Adopting a baby in the family

[lynn]

hi my cousin is pregnant and she wants me and my husband to adopt her baby when she is born in just a few months what do we need to do so it's done right

[expertlaw]

Adoption laws vary by state, so it depends upon the state where the baby will be born.

[lynn]

The baby will be born in Florida and i live in Georgia 1 hour and a 1/2 from her

[expertlaw]

Florida's adoption code can be read here, and a general guide to Florida adoption can be found here. The statutes indicate that for an adoption by a family member, assuming the biological parents consent, there need not be a separate judgment or proceeding to terminate their parental rights. See Section 63.102(6).