Guiding Families Through the Adoption Process in Texas
Professional Legal Help for Your Adoption Journey
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Building Families Through Adoption in Frisco, Texas
We understand that adopting a child is one of the most life-changing and rewarding decisions a person or family can make. Our team of experienced family law attorneys provides expert legal services to guide you through the adoption process in Frisco, Texas, and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re interested in step-parent adoption, adopting through Child Protective Services (CPS), or any other form of adoption, we are here to assist you every step of the way.
Guiding You Through the Adoption Process
Experienced Legal Counsel
With over 30 years of legal experience, we have handled a wide range of adoption cases and understand the complexities involved.
Personalized Support
We provide compassionate and individualized legal services to help you make informed decisions throughout the adoption process.
Local Expertise
Serving the Frisco, Lewisville, and Flower Mound areas, we are familiar with local court systems and regulations to ensure a smooth legal process.
Types of Adoption Services We Offer
Step-Parent Adoptions
A step-parent adoption is when a parent with children marries someone who is not the child’s biological parent. In these cases, the goal is to formalize an existing parental relationship. If the other biological parent is absent, our attorneys will work with you to determine whether their parental rights should be voluntarily or involuntarily terminated.
Adoption Through CPS
If you’re interested in adopting a child from the Texas Department of Family Protective Services (DFPS), we will assist you through the entire process, from attending informational meetings to navigating the legal requirements for adopting a child from foster care.
Private Adoptions
Private adoptions are conducted through licensed adoption agencies, and we can assist you in determining whether a private agency or CPS adoption is right for your family. These adoptions often involve working with an attorney to complete necessary paperwork and ensuring all legal requirements are met.
Involuntary Termination of Parental Rights
In cases where one parent refuses to terminate their parental rights, the court may still allow adoption if there is clear evidence that terminating those rights is in the best interest of the child. We can help guide you through these challenging situations and ensure the best interests of the child are prioritized.
Adoption Process in Texas
The adoption process in Texas involves several steps and legal requirements. While every adoption is unique, the general steps include:
Termination of Parental Rights
This step may involve voluntary or involuntary termination, especially if one biological parent is absent or unwilling to participate in the adoption process.
Criminal Background Check
All prospective adoptive parents must undergo a criminal background check as part of the legal requirements.
Residency Requirement
The child must live in the adoptive parent’s household for at least six months before the adoption can be finalized.
Social Study
A social worker will conduct an in-depth study of your family environment to ensure the child will be placed in a safe and supportive home.
Finalization Hearing
Once all the requirements have been met, a final adoption hearing will take place in court, where the judge will issue the adoption decree, formally making the child a member of your family.
Common Questions About Adoption in Texas
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the adoption process.
What factors determine whether an adoption will be contested?
The complexity of an adoption case often depends on the circumstances surrounding parental rights, the cooperation of biological parents, and whether one or both parents’ rights need to be terminated. If parental rights need to be contested, it may complicate and lengthen the adoption process. Our team can help you understand and navigate these challenges.
How long does the adoption process take?
The adoption process can take anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case, such as whether parental rights need to be terminated or if additional documentation (such as a Health, Social, Education, and Genetic History Report) is required.
What is a Step-Parent Adoption?
A step-parent adoption occurs when a child’s biological parent marries someone who is not the child’s parent. If the absent parent is unwilling to relinquish their parental rights, we will work with you to determine whether the adoption can proceed through involuntary termination of parental rights.
Can I adopt a child through CPS in Texas?
Yes, you can adopt a child through the Texas Department of Family Protective Services (DFPS). This process includes attending training sessions, undergoing a social study, and working with a CPS caseworker to find a child who is eligible for adoption. Our attorneys are well-versed in CPS adoptions and can guide you through each step.
How long does the adoption process take?
The adoption process can take anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case, such as whether parental rights need to be terminated or if additional documentation (such as a Health, Social, Education, and Genetic History Report) is required.
Why is Adoption Legal Assistance Important?
Adoption can be a highly emotional and complex legal process. Whether you’re facing contested parental rights, navigating through the bureaucratic requirements of CPS, or managing the emotional aspects of the adoption, our experienced team will provide you with the support you need to ensure a smooth and successful adoption.