Florida Family Matters
Family
Law
Adoptions, concurrent and temporary custody, name changes, and prenuptial agreements — for the moments that change your family forever.
Family law for life's important transitions
Family law at Lauren Richardson Law focuses on the moments that change a family permanently — welcoming a child through adoption, taking responsibility for a relative's child, formalizing a marriage with a prenup, or marking a new chapter with a name change.
Lauren handles these matters directly. She does not handle divorces or contested family law litigation, but she maintains a referral list of experienced family law attorneys in the Gainesville area and is happy to point you to the right person.
Family Law Services
Stepparent & Relative Adoptions
Adding a stepparent or close relative as a legal parent through Florida's Chapter 63 adoption process — including consents, hearings, and the final judgment of adoption.
Concurrent Custody
Shared legal custody for extended family members caring for a child, under §751.011, F.S. — without terminating parental rights.
Temporary Custody
Court-ordered temporary custody arrangements when an extended family member is caring for a minor child.
Legal Name Changes
Petitions for adult and minor name changes — for marriage, divorce, gender confirmation, or any other reason.
Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
Marital agreements drafted to be enforceable under the Florida Premarital Agreement Act. See our dedicated page for details.
Divorce & Litigation Referrals
Lauren does not handle divorces or contested family law matters. She maintains a referral list of experienced family law litigators in the Gainesville area and is happy to point you to the right attorney.
How does a stepparent adoption work in Florida?
A stepparent adoption gives a stepparent the same legal rights and responsibilities as a biological parent. Once finalized, the adopted child has full inheritance rights, the right to be on the stepparent's health insurance, and a permanent legal relationship that does not depend on the marriage continuing.
Florida adoptions are governed by Chapter 63, F.S. A stepparent adoption typically requires consent from the other biological parent (or termination of their rights), a background check, a brief court hearing, and a final judgment of adoption.
Typical adoption timeline
1 — Consultation
Discuss the family situation, the other biological parent's status, and any complications.
2 — Consents & Filings
Obtain required consents, file the petition, and complete background checks.
3 — Court Hearing
A brief hearing where the judge confirms the adoption is in the child's best interest.
4 — Final Judgment
The court enters the judgment of adoption — and a new birth certificate is issued.
Florida Family Law FAQ
What is a stepparent adoption in Florida?
A stepparent adoption is the legal process by which a stepparent becomes the legal parent of their spouse's child. Once finalized, the adopted child has the same rights as a biological child — including inheritance — and the consenting biological parent's rights are typically terminated. Florida governs adoptions under Chapter 63, F.S.
What is concurrent custody for an extended family member in Florida?
Florida's concurrent custody statute (§751.011, F.S.) allows an extended family member who is caring for a child to obtain shared legal custody alongside the parent — without terminating parental rights. It is often used by grandparents or other relatives raising a child temporarily.
How do I legally change my name in Florida?
A Florida name change requires filing a petition in the circuit court of your county, completing a fingerprint background check (in most cases), and attending a brief hearing. The process typically takes 2–3 months. Common reasons include marriage, divorce, gender confirmation, or simply wanting a different name.
Does Lauren Richardson Law handle divorce cases?
No. Lauren does not handle divorces or contested family law matters. She maintains a referral list of experienced family law litigators in the Gainesville area and is happy to point you to the right attorney. Lauren does handle prenuptial and postnuptial agreements directly, which can prevent many of the disputes that arise in a divorce. Call us for a referral or to talk about a nuptial agreement.
Related Practice Areas
Let's Talk About Your Family.
Whether you're welcoming a child, marking a new chapter, or planning ahead — Lauren is here to help. Call for a free 15-minute consultation.