Texas Bar College Bar
Avvo Rating Badge
State Bar of Texas

Stepparent Adoption in Texas: A Guide

Texas stepparent adoption is the process by which a stepparent legally becomes the parent of their spouse’s child. Once the adoption is finalized, the stepparent will have all the same legal rights and responsibilities as any other parent, including the right to make decisions for the child’s education, healthcare, and welfare.

Who Can Adopt a Stepchild in Texas?

To adopt a stepchild in Texas, you must meet the following requirements:

  • You must be at least 18 years old.
  • You must be the stepparent of the child you want to adopt.
  • You must have been living with the child for at least six months.
  • You must have the consent of both legal parents, if both are alive.
  • You must have the consent of the child, if they are 12 years old or older.

What is the Process for Stepparent Adoption in Texas?

The stepparent adoption process in Texas is as follows:

  1. File a petition with the court.
  2. Notify the biological parents of the adoption.
  3. Attend a hearing.
  4. The judge will terminate the biological parents’ parental rights and grant the adoption.
  5. The adoption will be finalized.

What are the Benefits of Stepparent Adoption?

There are many benefits to stepparent adoption, including:

  • It provides stability and security for the child.
  • It gives the stepparent the legal right to make decisions for the child’s welfare.
  • It can help to improve the relationship between the stepparent and the child.
  • It can help to create a more cohesive family unit.

What are the Challenges of Stepparent Adoption?

There are also some challenges associated with stepparent adoption, including:

  • The process can be time-consuming and expensive.
  • There is a risk that the biological parents will oppose the adoption.
  • There is a risk that the child will not adjust well to the new family situation.

How Can I Get Started with Stepparent Adoption? If you are interested in stepparent adoption, you should contact an adoption attorney to discuss your options. The attorney can help you navigate the legal process and answer any questions you may have.

Contact Tidwell Law Firm for experienced Family Law Attorneys ready to help you.

Client Reviews

I needed legal advice for a child custody dispute and had spoken with a few lawyers in order to gauge expenses and commitment requirements for legal action. Most of the lawyers I spoke with heard my situation and dismissed it going to be easy. One of the larger law groups not taking clients referred...

William C.

I used Jerry Tidwell as the representing lawyer for two family law cases: my divorce and subsequent modification to child possession schedule. In each situation, Jerry took the time to listen to my concerns, care-abouts, and the facts of the matter – helping me formulate a plan going into mediation...

Karl Y.

Having to deal with the complex world of criminal cases, you will need the best legal representation on your side. Attorney Jerry Tidwell Jr. is that lawyer who knows his craft and always on the side of truth, justice, and fair play. Our family is so blessed to have him as our counsel in the most...

Joseph B.

Jerry has been amazing to work with and fights for you in every legal way possible while being completely open and honest throughout the entire process. I highly recommend Jerry for any legal matter you may face. If Jerry feels your case may require additional council, he will tell you straight and...

Charles J.
Fill out the contact form or call us at 972-234-8208 to
schedule your free consultation.

Leave Us a Message