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Get an abortion without a parent involved.
Need free legal assistance for a judicial bypass in Florida? Contact The Jane Network at info@janenetworkfl.org or access their website here for help.
Florida law requires a parent to give permission if a young person under 18 years old is trying to get an abortion. (More info on the Florida laws here.) We know most young people talk to their parents when they need an abortion – but some can’t, for their own safety or because of logistical barriers. Everyone, regardless of age or circumstance, should be able to access reproductive care–including abortion.
If you can’t get your parent’s permission or are unable to ask your parents, you may be able to get an abortion with no parent involved if you go to court and are granted a “judicial bypass.” This is a waiver from a court that will allow you to get an abortion without your parents being involved in certain situations including if:
- You are in the foster system or otherwise in state custody following involvement by the Florida Department of Children and Families
- You are experiencing abuse or sexual abuse by your parent or legal guardian
Due to Florida’s restrictions on abortion, this timeline moves quickly. If you think you may need a judicial bypass or an avenue to get an abortion without involving your parent or guardian, even if the two situations above don’t apply to you, reach out to The Jane Network for free legal support. A recent Florida court decision has limited access to the judicial bypass process but the Jane Network can help you understand if and how it applies to you. (For more background on The Jane Network, click here.)
You may not need a parent, guardian, or a judicial waiver to get an abortion if one of the following applies to you. In other words, you may be able to get an abortion without involving a parent OR going through the judicial bypass process if:
- You have been or are married
- You already have children
- You have been emancipated (had “the disability of nonage removed”) under state law
Common Questions:
- What is a judicial bypass for abortion?
- Where do I go to get a judicial bypass?
- What forms do I need?
- What will the judge consider?
- Do I need a lawyer?
- How long does it take to get a judicial bypass?
- Does it cost money to get a judicial bypass?
- Will anyone know if I get a judicial bypass for abortion?
- What kinds of questions will the judge ask me?
- What do I wear to court?
- What happens if my hearing is scheduled during a school day?
- Does the other person involved in my pregnancy have a say about whether I choose to have an abortion?
- Do I have to be a US citizen to have an abortion? What if I don’t speak English well?
- Can I change my mind after I get the bypass?
- What if the judge denies my request for a bypass?
The Jane Network can connect you with an attorney who can represent you in your judicial bypass case for free. Click here to access their website.
Jane’s Due Process is offering information and 1-on-1 support for any young person going through the judicial bypass process. To contact Jane’s Due Process text their hotline at 866-999-5263.
Are you looking for information for judicial bypass for a state other than Florida?
Check out the the website of our national partner, If/When/How, for help.