Pompano Beach Florida Stepparent Adoption — Affidavit of Diligent Search is a legal document required in the adoption process to ensure that all necessary steps have been taken to locate and contact the noncustodial parent or legal parent of the child involved. This affidavit serves as proof that reasonable efforts and diligent search have been made to locate the absent parent, who may have either abandoned the child or have their parental rights terminated. In Pompano Beach, Florida, there are two types of Stepparent Adoption — Affidavit of Diligent Search, depending on the circumstances: 1. Consent-Based Diligent Search: This affidavit is applicable when the noncustodial parent voluntarily consents to the adoption and willingly relinquishes their parental rights. Prior to filing for adoption, the stepparent is required to make diligent efforts to contact the absent parent and obtain their written consent for the adoption. The affidavit should detail all the steps taken to locate the absent parent, such as contacting relatives, conducting online searches, hiring private investigators, etc. It should also include any communication attempts made and their outcomes. 2. Termination-Based Diligent Search: This affidavit is necessary when the noncustodial parent's rights need to be terminated due to abandonment, neglect, or other legal reasons. In this case, the stepparent seeking adoption must provide evidence to the court that diligent search efforts were made to locate and notify the absent parent about the proceedings. Such efforts may include publishing legal notices in newspapers, contacting government agencies, hiring professional search firms, and conducting extensive online searches. The affidavit should comprehensively outline all the steps taken, dates, and outcomes of each attempt made to find the noncustodial parent. It is essential to ensure that the Affidavit of Diligent Search meets all legal requirements and provides sufficient evidence of the search efforts made. Failing to comply with the diligent search process may result in delays or complications in the adoption process. Therefore, it is highly recommended seeking legal guidance and assistance to properly draft and submit the affidavit to the court.