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April 01, 2023

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On behalf of The Powell Law Firm

| Family Law

Can a Child Be Adopted at Any Time?

Adoption can be an exciting proposition for a person or couple who is ready to expand their family. For some people, it may be a necessity after a child’s parents have died or had their parental rights taken away.

In general, a child can be adopted if they are between the ages of birth and 18 years and are legally free to be adopted. A child is legally free for adoption when either their birth or legal parents have had their parental rights terminated or have consented to the adoption. Adults can also be adopted, but that is often done for inheritance reasons.

Not everyone can adopt in Texas adopt in Texas. Read on to learn about the requirements and process.

Requirements

In order to adopt a child in Texas, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Be financially stable
  • Complete an application
  • Provide references
  • Provide proof of marriage or divorce (if applicable; in Texas, you can be single or married)
  • Share background and lifestyle information
  • Complete a home study
  • Submit to criminal background and child abuse checks on all adults in the household

The Process

If you meet the requirements, you can start the process:

  • Choose the type of adoption. Do you want to adopt an infant or an older child? Do you want a private adoption? Do you want to adopt internationally?
  • Choose an adoption professional. An adoption agency or an attorney who specializes in adoption can help you with the process. You may wish to choose one based on cost, wait times, and support.
  • Complete a home study. This study will determine whether you and your home are fit to raise a child. A caseworker will visit your home to discuss your personal history, lifestyle, childcare experience, and how you will meet the child’s needs. Everyone in the home will be interviewed and you will need to provide financial and medical information as well as pass background checks..
  • Wait. Once you have submitted all the information, you will need to wait for a match and placement. This is especially true if you want a newborn; you will have to wait for the child to be born. So be patient!
  • Terminate parental rights. In Texas, a birth mother must wait at least 48 hours after the child’s birth before she can terminate her parental rights. Once she has signed the adoption papers, though, she cannot change her mind. Your attorney will help you terminate the birth father’s parental rights.
  • Finalize the adoption. You may have to complete some paperwork and attend a hearing before the adoption is finalized.

Contact a Texas Adoption Attorney Today

Adoptions can occur among children and adults when the biological parents have agreed to the adoption or when the parents’ rights have been terminated.

While adoption can be exciting, the process can be complex. Get help from Texas adoption attorneys at The Powell Law Firm. We’re here to assist you every step of the way. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call 832-850-6095.

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