Adoption
HELPING INDIVIDUALS UNDERSTAND THE ADOPTION PROCESS
Adoption is one of the few choices that can make an instant and monumental impact on all of the parties involved ― including both parents and children. Regardless of whether you simply wish to expand your family or provide a home for a needy child, adoption is a great option.
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At Angela Faye Brown & Associates, we are dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of Texas adoption law. Our goal is to help families move on with their lives, while at the same time minimizing the impact on any children involved. With several years of legal experience, attorney Angela Brown can help explain your options and guide you through the adoption process.
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Stepparent Adoption: The Basics
One of the most common situations in which adoptions occur is when a stepparent seeks to adopt the child of his or her spouse. Not only can a stepparent adoption stabilize the family as a whole, but it can also create permanency for the child and eliminate any questions regarding the child's legal parents.
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In Texas, a stepparent adoption typically involves two steps: the termination of the other parent's relationship with the child and the creation of the new relationship with the stepparent.
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In many cases, the first step referenced above ― termination of relationship ― is significantly easier if the child's other parent is willing to voluntarily waive his or her parental rights. If not, you may end up having to sue to have the rights terminated, although this may create additional turmoil for the child. As you can imagine, uncontested terminations are less likely to adversely affect the child.
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After the original parental relationship is terminated, you can petition to adopt the child ― although this process can be complicated as it often involves several reports/studies and possible hearings. However, once the adoption is complete, you, as a stepparent, will possess all parental rights, including the right to seek custody or visitation should you and your spouse decide to divorce later.
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Contact Us For A Case Strategy Session
To speak to a compassionate and skilled family law lawyer, contact Angela Faye Brown & Associates today. From our offices in Austin and Houston, we help individuals throughout the surrounding areas, including Williamson, Travis, Harris, Brazoria, Fort Bend and Galveston counties. Reach out to us online or call us at 844-854-5437 for an initial case strategy session.
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