sorry the domestic happened in 2016

Thank you for clarifying — that actually doesn't change anything about your case. Here's why:

The timeline still strongly supports you:

• Domestic violence: 2016
• Last contact with the children: 2017
• Time since last contact: 7+ years (2017 to now, 2025)

The court will see this pattern clearly:

1. Domestic violence incident in 2016

2. Biological father had minimal/no contact after that

3. Last seen or heard from in 2017

4. Seven years of complete abandonment since then

What the court focuses on:

The court cares most about the abandonment period — the continuous time with no meaningful contact. You have 7+ years of that, which is far beyond Florida's 12-month requirement.

The 2016 domestic violence incident provides context for why there's been no contact, and it shows the court why this adoption is in the children's best interests — they're gaining safety and stability with a parent who is present and protective.

Your case remains very strong:

• Clear abandonment (7+ years, way past the 12-month requirement)
• Department of Revenue couldn't locate him
• Documented DV history showing why maintaining distance was necessary
• Children (now 12 and 10) have a stepparent ready to provide legal commitment and stability

Nothing about your timeline is a problem. The court in Seminole County will view this adoption favorably.

Is there anything else about your specific situation you'd like me to address?