Dallas, TX family law attorney Holly Draper talks about the process of adopting a child in Texas. She mentions that the adoption process can vary in complexity depending on several factors. If the biological parents’ rights have already been terminated, such as through CPS litigation, the adoption process is usually quick and straightforward. Similarly, if one or both parents need to have their rights terminated but are willing to sign a voluntary relinquishment, the process can also move quickly and smoothly.

However, if one or both biological parents are contesting the termination and adoption, the process becomes more complicated, requiring proof of specific statutory grounds to achieve termination.

Once all biological parents’ rights have been terminated, the focus shifts to the adoption itself. A home study must be completed by a licensed professional, who visits the home, meets with the adopting parents and child, checks references, and provides a recommendation to the court about whether the adoption serves the child’s best interest. Adopting parents also complete background checks, a straightforward process involving electronic fingerprints, which are filed with the court.

Depending on the circumstances, a guardian ad litem or attorney ad litem may be appointed to represent the child’s best interests. This individual communicates with the court and provides guidance on whether the adoption is in the child’s best interest.