You Have Options, No Matter Your Age
If you’re a teenager facing an unplanned pregnancy, you’re not the first, and you won’t be judged here. Our counselors have worked with expectant mothers as young as their early teens, and every conversation is treated with the same care and confidentiality as any other.
Your Legal Rights as a Minor Birth Mother in Florida
Under Florida law, a minor parent has the legal power to consent to place her own child for adoption, and her own parents’ permission is not required for that decision. If you are 14 years old or younger, Florida law requires a parent, legal guardian, or court-appointed guardian ad litem to witness your signature when you sign consent, though this is a witnessing requirement rather than a requirement for their approval. If you are 15 through 17, no parent or guardian involvement is legally required for you to make this decision about your own baby.
Confidential Support You Can Trust
Everything you share with our counselors is handled with the same confidentiality we offer any expectant mother, regardless of age. Florida law also gives you the right to receive supportive counseling from a counselor, social worker, physician, member of the clergy, or attorney throughout this process, and we’re glad to be one of those resources for you.
We Encourage Support, But the Decision Is Yours
While Florida law doesn’t require you to involve a parent or guardian in most cases, we do encourage every expectant mother, especially a younger one, to have at least one trusted adult in her corner during this time, whether that’s a parent, another family member, a counselor, or someone from your community. That said, this remains your decision, and we’ll support you and respect your privacy either way.
Reach Out Any Time
If you are unsure of your next steps, call our Sarasota office today at (941) 957-0064. This conversation doesn’t commit you to anything. We’re here to help you explore your options at whatever pace feels right for you.