RGV Family Law Attorney
An adoption in Texas is a complex and somewhat long process, but the process is very worthwhile for those who understand how different a child’s life could be after everything is said and done. The adoption process is dictated by the Texas Family Code Chapter 162.
Should I Hire an Attorney for an Adoption?
A legal professional should absolutely be involved in this process, as there are many requirements to be met and paperwork that needs to be submitted to the court in a timely manner in order to show cause for the adoption.
Information regarding the children’s and parent’s health, social, educational and genetic background must be confirmed and reported by specific government-sponsored agencies.
The criminal history of the adoptive parents must also be included.
How Long Does an Adoption Take to Complete?
As far as length of time, while there are never any guarantees for a definitive timeline on a case, you can expect to spend anywhere between 8-10 months in court hashing out the details of why and how the adoption should happen. Depending on your circumstances, it could be longer.
Why Should I Consider Adopting a Child?
An adoption is sometimes, but not always, joined by the process of terminating the rights of an unfit parent(s). The grounds for terminating an unfit parent’s rights are found in the Texas Family Code Chapter 161. You can also read about how our firm can help with Termination of Parental Rights here.
Step-Parent, Grandparent or Other Relative Adoption
Another reason a person may want to adopt a child(ren) is because they married someone who already had children and the non-biological parent seeks to adopt the children as their own. Additionally, if a person is willing to terminate their rights, they typically have a grandparent of the child(ren) or a close relative like an aunt or uncle who are willing to adopt them.