When you want to expand or build a family, the legal adoption process in Texas can be overwhelming. Between the detailed requirements and coordinating with multiple entities, the adoption journey in Williamson County involves statewide and local procedures.
At The Carlson Law Firm, our family law team helps clients understand the legal framework and expectations that go with adoption. We have experience with many types of adoption, so our Round Rock adoption attorneys can help clients move through each step with confidence.
Our team stays updated with recent Texas adoption laws so that we can explain the essential information of child adoption in Round Rock. Trust our family law attorneys to support your adoption case when you contact us.
The statutes of Texas Family Code Chapter 162 are the primary laws that govern Texas adoptions. Some of the details under Chapter 162 are:
Through Texas Family Code 162.001, almost any adult can file a petition to adopt. The statute also explains how certain circumstances may require termination of a biological parent’s rights before the adoption can move forward.
If the child is 12 years or older, the court usually requires their written or in-court consent under Code 162.008, unless the court determines that consent is not in the best interest of the child. Our adoption attorneys in Round Rock can help navigate the process from start to finish.
Most Round Rock adoption cases require an evaluation under Texas Family Code 162.003. These evaluations, commonly known as “home studies,” are conducted by a licensed professional to review:
The evaluation can help the court decide if the placement is appropriate. Texas Law also requires a detailed Health, Social, Educational, and Genetic History Report under Code 162.005 and 162.006.
This information can come from biological parents, when possible, but it can also be gathered from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Prospective adoptive parents receive a redacted copy to understand the child’s background, but protected information is kept confidential.
Before the court issues the final adoption decree, there are steps that must be taken:
Once the child adoption in Round Rock is granted, it creates a full legal parent-child relationship under Code 162.017. This gives the child the same rights as a biological child, including inheritance rights.
If you are considering growing your family, an adoption lawyer at The Carlson Law Firm can help. Our family law team will be compassionate as we guide you through the Texas adoption process.
Texas adoptions apply statewide, but local procedures can influence cases. In Round Rock, adoption cases are filed with the Williamson County District Clerk. The court schedules hearings at the Williamson County Justice Center. Adoption cases can involve different agencies or individuals, including:
Families often benefit from an adoption attorney for legal filings to keep track of deadlines and coordinate documents. The Carlson Law Firm has a compassionate family law team to help with your child adoption.
With so many steps and legal codes involved in the Texas adoption process, working with an experienced family law attorney can be helpful. At The Carlson Law Firm, you can get the support you need, including:
The Carlson Law Firm provides legal support that covers many areas of family law. Since adoption often crosses over into these areas, it might help to know we can help with:
Adoption changes legal parentage, which can result in the termination or initiation of child support obligations. Stepparent adoptions can likewise play a role in financial situations. Our team can answer questions about support, conservatorship, or visitation.
If there are concerns about safety or domestic violence in an adoption case, parents can seek protective orders. We understand the difference between a protection order vs. restraining order.
The Carlson Law Firm has represented families across Texas for decades in child adoption and welfare. Our family law team knows the Texas adoption process can be as emotional as it is legal, which is why we are compassionate and want to help. With us, you can look forward to:
Our family law team offers personalized guidance for adoption in Texas. We help families go through each step with confidence and understanding.
While child adoption is the most common, there are many forms of Round Rock family law adoption. Each type has its own unique procedures and legal considerations, so it can help to have an adoption lawyer to guide you.
Stepparent adoption is the one that takes place most often. Most of the time, it requires the termination of parental rights for the noncustodial parent. The court reviews:
Some of the less common types of adoptions are:
The timeline for child adoption in Round Rock can vary based on the type of adoption, whether parental rights must be terminated and how quickly evaluations and reports are completed.
Some cases may move forward in a few months, while others take longer if the adoption is contested or involves an agency such as DFPS.
Most child adoptions in Williamson County require an adoption evaluation, often called a home study, under Texas Family Code §162.003. A licensed professional reviews factors such as background checks, household environment and the child’s needs to help the court determine whether the placement is appropriate.
Yes. Stepparent adoption is one of the most common forms of adoption in Round Rock. These cases typically involve the termination of the other biological parent’s rights, either voluntarily or through court proceedings, before the adoption can be finalized.
Child adoptions in Round Rock are filed with the Williamson County District Clerk. Hearings are usually held at the Williamson County Justice Center. The court reviews all required filings, evaluations and reports before issuing a final adoption decree.
If you want to be a foster parent or get started on the Texas child adoption process, The Carlson Law Firm is here to help. We can discuss legal options so that you understand the requirements, documentation and steps involved in adoption.
Contact The Carlson Law Firm today to schedule a consultation with a Round Rock adoption lawyer.
With over a dozen locations throughout Texas, there’s a Carlson Law Firm near you. We have law offices located in Killeen, Temple, Waco, Round Rock, Austin, San Antonio, Kerrville, Laredo, Bryan, Lubbock, Midland, Baytown, San Angelo and Corpus Christi.
