I have two children ages 12 and 10 last time the parent was seen or heard from was 2017 after a domestic violence case

I'm so sorry your family went through that. The good news is that your situation is actually very straightforward for a stepparent adoption, and the court will be supportive.

Here's why this works strongly in your favor:

The abandonment timeframe is clear. If the last contact was in 2017, that's 7+ years with no contact. In Florida (and every other state), the requirement is typically 12 months of abandonment. You're way past that threshold. The court will have no hesitation proceeding without the other parent's consent.

Domestic violence history supports your case. Courts prioritize the safety and stability of children. When there's a documented history of domestic violence, the court is even more inclined to approve an adoption that gives the children a safe, stable two-parent home.

About your children's ages:

• Your 12-year-old will need to consent to the adoption in writing (Florida requires consent from children 12+). This is typically a simple form they sign.
• Your 10-year-old does not need to consent, but the judge may ask their feelings about the adoption at the hearing. This is just to make sure they're comfortable with it — it's not a barrier.

The cost for two children with us: $349 for the first child + $95 for the second = $444 total for all documents. Then you'll have court filing fees (around $400 in Florida), service costs (around $50), and background check (around $50-$100).

What happens next:

1. You'd fill out our questionnaire with information about your family and both children

2. We prepare all the legal documents within 24 hours (customized for your specific Florida county)

3. You file them with the court

4. The other parent is served by publication (since you can't locate them)

5. Background check on the stepparent

6. Court hearing (usually about 3 months after filing) — often done virtually now

7. Adoption finalized, new birth certificates issued

The whole thing takes about 3 months from filing to finalization.

Given the length of time and the domestic violence history, this should be a very smooth process. The court wants your children to have the security of two legal parents who are present and protective.

Are you and your spouse ready to move forward, or do you have other questions about the process?