Stepparent adoptions typically occur in cases of remarriage. For a stepparent to granted legal rights to a stepchild, it is necessary to obtain an order terminating the parental rights of the biological parent. This can be done easily if the biological parent signs a voluntary agreement or if the other parent is not on the child’s birth certificate. However, if the parent is unwilling to relinquish his or her rights, things can be a bit more complicated. The biological parent will need to be served with a lawsuit to terminate his or her rights. Sometimes, the biological parent does not respond, making termination a simpler process.
There are also circumstances where the estranged parent cannot be located. If this is the case, then that parent will have to be notified of the termination suit by citation by publication or by posting a notice in accordance with Texas laws.
If some instances, the estranged father does not need to be located, noticed and served with the termination lawsuit. This is in instances where the child was conceived out of wedlock and there are no court orders establishing paternity.
In all stepparent adoptions a social study and a criminal background check must be done. I will work tirelessly to show the court why a parent's rights should be terminated. Some of the reason why a court might terminate a parent's rights include:
* The parent is not involved in the child's life.
* The parent is incarcerated.
* The parent is violent.
* The parent is addicted to drugs.
I will work closely with you on your case and keep you informed of the progress every step of the way. Whether the termination is contested or uncontested, I will always have the best interest of the child in mind. .
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.