Minors under 18 years of age seeking abortion care services

Legal Requirements and Disclaimers

If you are a minor under the age of 18, Florida law requires you notify your legal guardian of your decision to have an abortion 48 hours (2 days) in advance of your procedure. While NFWS encourages you to speak with your parent or guardian about your decision, we understand that it may not be possible depending on your circumstances.

There are some exceptions to this rule.

Exceptions include:

  • You are legally emancipated.
  • If so, you must have the supporting legal documents.
  • You have a Judicial Waiver
  • If so, you must have the supporting legal documents.

If you are comfortable speaking with your parent or guardian and you feel they will support your decision, therefore they may sign a waiver of the 48 hour wait. To do so, your parent/guardian would need to be present at your appointment to complete the waiver.

You and your parent/guardian will also need picture identification showing date of birth, your birth certificate naming them your parent or the documentation showing they are your legal guardian. We have a staff member available to complete and notarize the required waivers.

**Please contact NFWS with the forms specific to your situation. **

Sources for Help

***If you would like information and help to get a Judicial Waiver of the parental notification please contact:

Leon County Clerk’s Office

Suite 100-1st Floor

301 S. Monroe Street

Tallahassee, FL 32301

850-577-4150

Beware of Crisis Pregnancy Centers they do not support a woman’s right to choose.