None of us can travel and none of us can physically appear in court due to health issues

This is absolutely manageable — courts have become very flexible about virtual appearances, especially for adult adoptions.

Here's what you need to know:

Virtual/Remote Hearings:

Most courts now routinely conduct adoption hearings by phone or video conference (Zoom, etc.). This became standard during COVID and many courts have continued the practice. Adult adoption hearings are particularly well-suited for this since they're straightforward and celebratory.

When requesting a virtual hearing:

• When you file the petition, you can include a motion or letter requesting a remote hearing due to health limitations
• Courts are generally very accommodating for health-related requests
• The hearing itself is brief — typically 10-20 minutes

If New York:

• New York courts (both Surrogate's Court and Family Court) widely offer virtual hearings
• You'd request this when filing or contact the clerk's office after filing
• Still $0 filing fee

If Florida:

• Florida courts also offer virtual hearings
• Same process — request when filing or shortly after
• Still the ~$401-$450 filing fee

Important: Even if one specific court doesn't routinely do virtual hearings, they will almost always make an accommodation when you have documented health reasons preventing travel. Courts want to finalize adoptions — they'll work with you.

My recommendation: File in New York to save the $400+ in fees, and request a virtual hearing due to health limitations when you file. Include a brief explanation in a cover letter with your petition.

Would you like guidance on what to say in that request, or do you have questions about the filing process itself?