HOUSTON CHILD ADOPTION LAWYERS

Adoption and Termination of Rights in Texas

In most cases, adoptions are a happy occasion for all involved, and the attorney’s role is to clear any legal obstacles and make sure that the paperwork is completed correctly. Sometimes, however, an adoption involves terminating parental rights against the will of the parents.

The law firm of Bill De La Garza & Associates, P.C. provides sound counsel and representation for all scenarios, including stepparent adoptions, adoptions by foster parents, and adoptions by grandparents or other family members who have assumed custody.

Our Houston child adoption attorneys have more than 80 years of combined legal experience and have handled many adoptions. We practice in Houston, Harris County and surrounding counties in Texas. Arrange a consultation today.

Stepparent, Foster Parent and Family Adoptions

We are always glad to pave the way for an uncontested adoption, a win-win for the child who needs a stabile, loving home and for those adults who have provided care and want to cement their commitment. Adoption bestows all the legal rights and responsibilities of natural parenthood, including inheritance, financial support, decisions regarding education, and medical care and upbringing.

In the best case scenario, the biological parent who has been absent or unfit to parent has voluntarily relinquished parental rights, and the proceedings are a formality.

But if the biological parents are not willing to waive their parental rights, the prospective adoptive parents must petition the court to involuntarily terminate the parents’ rights. We will prepare evidence and witnesses as necessary to effectively demonstrate the grounds for termination to the court, such as:

  • Willful failure to provide support to the child
  • Abandonment of the child
  • Surrendering the child to the care of others
  • Endangering the child’s welfare (abuse, neglect, drug use, criminal activity)
  • Not fit because of serious mental illness

Once the court terminates rights of both biological parents, the prospective adoptive parents can then proceed with the formal adoption process.

The Other Side of the Story — We have also represented many parents who are facing termination of rights and fighting for the right to raise their children. When we represent a person faced with this situation, the parent may have a history of addictions, criminal convictions or CPS interventions. When we are faced with such potentially difficult facts, our 80-plus years of combined experience enable us to find the best way to assist the parent through the process. When Child Protective Services or family members move to terminate parents’ rights, our attorneys have the experience and knowledge to render the best possible service to the client.

Texas Termination of Parental Rights Lawyers for Stepparent Adoption and More

Call (281) 486-7007 or email us to talk with our experienced Houston child adoption attorneys.