another question there was a child support case opened but the dept of revenue was never able to find the biological father either

This actually strengthens your case even more. Here's why:

The state couldn't find him either. When the Department of Revenue (which has far more resources and legal tools than you do) couldn't locate the biological father for child support enforcement, that creates a strong paper trail showing he's genuinely unavailable. This makes your "diligent search" affidavit even more credible to the court.

Important clarification about child support: When the adoption is finalized, all child support obligations are automatically terminated. The biological father's legal relationship with the children ends completely — which means:

• Any past child support debt is wiped out
• Any future child support obligation ends
• Your spouse becomes the legal parent with full financial responsibility

This is actually one reason some biological parents don't fight stepparent adoptions — it releases them from child support.

What you'll document:

In your Affidavit of Diligent Search, you'll note:

• Last known contact: 2017
• Department of Revenue attempted to locate him for child support enforcement and was unsuccessful
• Any other searches you've done (last known address, family members, social media, etc.)

The fact that a government agency with subpoena power couldn't find him is powerful evidence for the court. They'll have zero hesitation approving service by publication.

One thing to consider: If there's still an open child support case with the Department of Revenue, you may want to notify them once the adoption is finalized so they can close the case. The adoption order terminates the obligation, but it's good to make sure their records are updated so nothing gets reported incorrectly.

Timeline question: Do you know which county in Florida you'll be filing in? (Just so I can tell you the specific court and any county-specific details.)

This is going to be a very straightforward adoption. Seven years of no contact, documented inability to locate him, domestic violence history, and children who will be gaining a present, committed parent — the court will be enthusiastic about finalizing this.