Are you dreaming of growing your family through adoption, but you’re overwhelmed by the legal complexities of the process? From the paperwork to the home study, it can feel as if there’s one legal hurdle after the next. You can’t help but worry since you know a single mistake could slow down or derail the process. As difficult as that would be on a personal level, it would be even worse for the child left without a loving home. You don’t want to take that risk, so instead of navigating the process yourself, consult with an attorney from our firm.
When you work with our Austin adoption lawyer, you’ll get more than someone to handle the legal aspects of the case. Additionally, your attorney will walk you through each step of the process so there aren’t any surprises. You can also stay on top of your case any time of the day or night through your client portal. Reach out today to learn more about how our firm can help you through this fulfilling yet challenging process.
Our Austin adoption lawyer assists clients with:
While each case is unique, you certainly will have to go through a legal process when adopting in Texas. First, your Austin adoption lawyer will prepare and file the petition to initiate the process. Next, the attorney will take steps to terminate the biological parents’ legal rights, if applicable. Your attorney might be able to get the biological parents to sign away the rights and consent to the adoption. If not, the lawyer can present the case before a judge. The judge can then terminate the biological parents’ rights if it’s in the best interests of the child.
You will then need to undergo a home study to ensure you will provide a safe, healthy place for the child. Then, a caseworker will visit your home, conduct interviews, and run a background check. Also, the caseworker will evaluate your finances.
Finally, an amicus attorney will be hired to represent the child. After reviewing the caseworker’s information, the attorney will give a recommendation to the judge. Then, the judge can grant the adoption.
If you are married, your spouse must also consent before you can adopt a child. He or she must sign the petition for it to go through. Additionally, children 12 years of age and older typically must give consent. However, the court can waive this if the judge believes the adoption is in the child’s best interests.
If applicable, you also might have to obtain consent from the child’s conservator. Again, this is not necessary if the court waives the need for consent.
Your Austin adoption lawyer can explain this in greater detail, including any obstacles you might face. Reach out today to discuss your situation so your attorney can develop a legal strategy to assist during each step of the process.
You must meet the edibility requirements to adopt a child in Texas. First, the state only allows financially stable people aged 21 and older to adopt. You also must demonstrate responsibility and maturity and provide references. Additionally, the court will require that you submit lifestyle and background information. Also, if other adults live in your home, they’ll have to undergo background checks before you can adopt a child. Then, of course, you’ll need to complete the paperwork and home study to be eligible. If you’re unsure if you meet the requirements, consult with an Austin adoption lawyer. Then, you can find out if you can move forward with a petition to adopt a child.
International adoptions are a bit more complex, but you can navigate the process with help from an attorney. Your Austin adoption lawyer can also help you with the readoption process after you bring your child home. Through this process, your child will receive a United States birth certificate and establish citizenship. This is just one of the considerations when adopting internationally, so consult with an attorney before moving forward. Then, you will have a clear understanding of each step you’ll have to take when adding to your family.
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Kimbrough Legal, PLLC
5920 W. William Cannon Dr., Bldg 3,
Ste 400, Austin, TX 78749
Kimbrough Legal, PLLC
Kimbrough Legal, PLLC
