Representing You in Stepparent and Other Adoptions
The most common adoptions in Texas are those in which a stepparent, foster parent or relative adopts a child they are already caring for. In these cases, the adoption process simply gives legal standing to a parent-child relationship that already exists.
The days that Houston family law attorney Kimberly D. Levi helps families adopt children are some of her best days as a lawyer. In an adoption, everyone from the judge, to the adoptive parents to the child can leave the courthouse happy. Ms. Levi's job is to ensure that process stays a positive one by ensuring that you receive sound legal advice every step of the way.
Adoption — Terminations
Stepparent, foster parent and relative adoptions are sometimes called adoption-terminations, because the legal rights of the biological parent must first be terminated before the adoption can take place. This can be done voluntarily or involuntarily.
In a voluntary termination, the biological parent relinquishes parental rights via an affidavit, clearing the way for the adoption to proceed. If a parent will not voluntarily relinquish his or her rights, then the adoptive parents must file a petition seeking termination of the biological parent's rights.
The following are examples of grounds for involuntary termination of parental rights:
- The parent failed to support the child to their ability for a period of at least one year ending within six months of the adoption.
- The parent abandoned the child.
- The parent voluntarily left the child in the care of someone else.
- The parent left the child and remained away for at least six months.
- The parent endangered the child.
In a foster parent adoption, parental rights are usually terminated by the Texas Child Protective Services (CPS).
Schedule a Lawyer Consultation
To discuss terminations/adoptions with attorney Kimberly D. Levi, please call 888-324-6330 or fill out the contact form on this site. Ms. Levi has more than 15 years of experience assisting families in finding sustainable solutions for the family in Houston, Texas, and the surrounding area.
