Adopting a child may be the most important decision of your life. For this reason, you may need someone to help you. To be realistic, the Texas adoption process is complicated—both logistically, and emotionally. The last thing a judge wants to do is to deny an adoption. Above all else, they want a child to have a good home, with a suitable family; however, the process can be stressful on you and your household. For this reason, we do not advise trying to navigate the Texas family law courts alone during the adoption process. Davis, Ermis & Roberts, P.C. is ready to assist you in filing the necessary and considerable paperwork that comes with Texas adoption.
THE IMPORTANCE OF LEGAL COUNSEL FOR ADOPTION
In Texas, it is especially important to have legal counsel because the state’s adoption laws are specific and can vary depending on the type (domestic, international, etc.). An attorney can help ensure that all legal requirements are met, including completing necessary paperwork, scheduling court hearings, and representing the adoptive parents in court.
An attorney can help prospective parents understand the risks and benefits of adoption, including potential legal and financial risks. The guidance of a knowledgeable attorney can be invaluable in helping prospective parents make informed decisions throughout the adoption process and in ensuring that the adoption is completed successfully.
TYPES OF ADOPTION
There are several types of adoption that you may apply for so it is best to familiarize yourself with them so you can fulfill the necessary steps.
- Domestic – Adopting a child who is a citizen or resident of the same country as the adoptive parents.
- International – Adopting a child from another country.
- Foster Care – Adopting a child who is in the foster care system.
- Stepparent – Adopting the child of a spouse or partner.
- Relative – Adopting a child who is related to the adoptive parents.
ADOPTION IN TEXAS
In the state of Texas, laws allow just about any adult to adopt a child (although if the child is 12 years of age or older, their consent is required). Home residency requirements must also be met, and additional factors are presented if the person adopting is married (in which the spouse must also be involved).
Any prospective parent hoping to adopt must be approved by a Texas adoption home study. This includes Texas criminal background checks, home visits, interviews and more. Although adoption laws in Texas allow most anyone to adopt, hopeful adoptive parents will have to meet the individual adoption requirements of the professional they want to work with, as well as the requirements for the type of adoption they’re pursuing, whether that’s international, domestic, or foster care adoption.
Ultimately, state laws are constantly changing, and legislation can have an effect on any individual—contact our office for any questions or details about Texas adoption.
REQUIREMENTS FOR ADOPTION IN TEXAS
Age: Adoptive parents must be at least 21 years old.
Income: Prospective adoptive parents must demonstrate a stable source of income.
Health: Adoptive parents must be in good physical and mental health.
Background Checks: Prospective adoptive parents must undergo criminal record and child abuse registry checks.
Legal Requirements: Adoptive parents must comply with all legal requirements and regulations, including submitting necessary paperwork and attending court hearings.
DAVIS, ERMIS, & ROBERTS P.C.: YOUR PROUD ADOPTION LAWYERS
Parents choose to adopt for many reasons. However, more specifically, that reason is love—Davis, Ermis & Roberts, P.C. knows that. Throughout the years, we’ve finalized countless successful adoptions for new parents, and for this reason, we’re very inclined to the process. Ultimately, why take a risk with something so important? To speak with one of our attorneys, just give us a call or send us a message.