Step-Parent Adoption

seasoned family law attorneys

At Clark Law Group, we understand how vital the step-parent adoption process can be for those looking to solidify family bonds. At our firm, we have the knowledge and resources necessary to help you navigate the complex legal landscape of step-parent adoption. Our trained and able attorneys are well-versed in eligibility requirements and how to best protect the child’s best interests throughout the process. Our seasoned family law attorneys will help empower you to make informed decisions through the process that will benefit and positively impact your family’s future.

First Steps in the Process

Step-parent adoption can be an intricate process that requires the assistance of a legal professional. Your attorney’s first act will be to file a petition for adoption with the court, which will begin the adoption process. At this point, the type of petition you file will largely depend on the relationship between the child you are looking to adopt and the child’s other biological parent.

For instance, in cases where the prospective adopted child’s parent is still alive, with no existing court order of the termination of parental rights, a prospective adoptive parent will need to file a petition to terminate the parent-child relationship between the child and their biological parent. In cases where the parent of the prospective adopted child has passed away or where there is already a petition to terminate parental rights, you can then file a petition referred to as an Original Petition for Adoption.

Once you have reached this step, you must notify the child’s biological parent that you are planning to adopt their child. The birth parent will need to provide their signature on certain documents consenting to the adoption. If the child’s biological parent does not consent, you will need to take action to terminate their parental rights. In this scenario, contested court hearings are a likely possibility. However, once the parental rights have been terminated, it will then be necessary to go to court with the intention of finalizing the adoption. At this point, your attorney will be invaluable in guiding you through every step of the process as seamlessly as possible.

Additional Considerations

In Texas, any child who is being adopted must have lived with their step-parent for a minimum of six months before the adoption can be finalized. This important requirement is to help ensure the child is in a comfortable environment and possesses a bond with their new parent. If the child is at least 12 years old, they must also consent to the adoption. However, this requirement may be waived if the court determines that the adoption would be in the child’s best interest.

Contact a Dallas Step-Parent Adoption Attorney

A step-parent adoption can be a very rewarding experience. To begin the process of adopting a step-child, contact a family lawyer today. At Clark Law Group, we understand how intimidating the step-parent adoption process can be. By retaining the services of a dedicated attorney at our firm, becoming an adoptive parent to your step-child is a dream that can become a reality. Call us at 469-906-2266 for a private consultation.