Termination of Rights & Adoptions

Bedford, TX Termination & Adoption Attorneys

Termination in Texas

Before a child is eligible for adoption, at least one parent's parental rights must be terminated. Termination of parental rights may be voluntary or involuntary. Voluntary termination is the easiest way to terminate parental rights. Other times a person's parental rights must be terminated involuntarily by the court. There are many grounds in the Texas Family Code to involuntarily terminate parental rights, including voluntarily leaving the child alone or in the possession of another with no intent to return, allowing a child to remain in conditions that endanger the physical or emotional well-being of the child, or failing to support a child during a period of one year. The allegations must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt - a much higher burden than most family law proceedings.

Our skilled adoption lawyers at Holland McGill Law can guide you through this process and ensure that the process runs smoothly for your family.

If you have any questions, contact us online or call (817) 934-5922 to schedule a free initial consultation today!  

Adoption in Texas

Once a parent's rights have been terminated, then a child is eligible for adoption. Additionally, the child must have lived with the prospective adoptive parent or parents for at least six months prior to filing the petition for adoption. There are additional requirements for adoption that our attorneys will discuss with you prior to filing the petition. It is becoming more and more common for family members to adopt grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and stepchildren.

Termination and adoption proceedings are often filed together. The prospective adoptive parent(s) must obtain a criminal history report and undergo a home study prior to the court approving the adoption. A termination and adoption proceeding may also require the appointment of an Attorney Ad Litem for the child, which is an attorney who represents the interests of the child and informs the court about whether the termination and adoption is in the best interest of the child. Our attorney will let you know if your case requires an Attorney Ad Litem for the child.

How Does the Court Make its Final Decision?

As a general rule for adoption in Texas, the court makes its final decision by considering what is best for the child. Using the law that applies to your specific situation, the judge will make this decision after hearing the testimony of the parties involved, reviewing the necessary reports and studies.

You should consult with an attorney before attempting to file for adoption, since each adoption case is unique due to its specific facts.

Let Our Experienced Texas Adoption Attorneys Guide You Through This Process

A termination and adoption can be a lengthy process, but a worthy one. An attorney with experience in terminations and adoptions can help reduce the stress that may arise from the process. If you or a loved one is seeking to terminate and adopt in Texas, contact our office today for a consultation with one of our lawyers.

To speak with one of our Texas adoption lawyers, contact us online or give us a call!

Client Testimonials

Read About How We've Helped Our Clients
  • "Janine is amazing! The whole staff at Holland McGill Law were always so kind and prompt with responses. Truly helped make a difficult thing as stress free as they could. I appreciate you all!"
    Erik C.
  • "Janine listened to all of my concerns and answered all of my questions."
    Elizabeth N.
  • "I recently went through a divorce and Janine was amazing!!! Going through a tough time through this divorce Janine was not only professional, compassionate but I felt like I was talking to a friend. ..."
    Kerry W.
  • "I can't imagine anyone finds divorce relaxing but Chandni Patel really put my mind at ease regarding and I felt she was very attentive and listened to all of my concerns. Since this was my first ..."
    Kristine M.
  • "I would highly recommend this office for anyone needing services that they provide. They are caring, compassionate, and have great communication from start to finish. If I could, I would give them six ..."
    Robert S.
  • "Ms. Janine McGill probated an estate for me, as well as updated a will. She handled everything precisely and in a timely fashion. Ms. Stephanie Christian is the firm's receptionist. She is most ..."
    Doyle G.
  • We Listen With Kindness & Empathy
  • We Provide a Free Initial Consultation
  • We Have 50 Years of Combined Experience
  • We Are Passionate About Getting Justice

Contact Us Today

Request a Free Consultation
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.