Legal Question in Family Law in Texas
Adoption
I have an 8 year old daughter, her biological father hasn't been around her since she was 8months old. Would this be considered abandonment? He is not listed on the birth certificate. I am married and my husband wants to adopt my daughter. Do i need to find the biological father in order for him to hand over his rights? And once i find him do i have to serve him with the papers for giving up his rights? What are the steps to have my husband adopt my daughter? And does the biological father have to be notified of the adoption process since he isn't listed on the birth certificate?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Adoption
Yes, the bio dad has to be notified of the adoption and agree to terminate his rights or have his rights terminated by the Court. You really need to talk with a good family law attorney who handles adoptions. The process, even for a step-parent adoption is fairly complex (and expensive), especially if you have no contact with the bio dad. Good luck!
Re: Adoption
You should talk to a lawyer in person.