Texas Adoption: Overview of the Law
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed January 11, 2023
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Choosing to bring a child into your home through adoption is a major decision that will alter your life and the child's life forever. With any type of adoption, there are rights, responsibilities, and obligations that accompany the eventual bliss that you will experience when the child is officially part of your life.
Below is an overview of Texas adoption laws.
Legal Overview of Texas Adoptions
Although the relevant laws concerning Texas adoptions are best interpreted with an attorney's assistance, it doesn't hurt to have a plain language explanation as a starting point for analysis. The chart below provides a summary of information concerning the legal overview of the adoption process in Texas, including links to the applicable statutes.
Code Section |
§ 162.002, et. seq., of the Texas Family Code |
|---|---|
Who May Be Adopted |
Any person; if an adult must have their spouse's consent |
Age That Child's Consent Needed |
12 years and older |
Who May Adopt |
Any person. If the petition is married, the spouse must consent. Parents and partners may adopt if in the best interest of the child. |
Home Residency Required Prior to Finalization of Adoption? |
Six months |
State Agency/Court |
Dept. of Family and Protective Services/Probate Court |
Statute of Limitations to Challenge |
Six months |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Related Resources for Texas Adoption Overview
Discuss Adoption with an Experienced Attorney
Adopting a child requires the completion of numerous legal requirements. If you're involved in an adoption, it's important to find the right person to help you navigate through the process as easily as possible.
Contact a Texas adoption attorney right away.
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