Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

Adoption of 15 yr old by step father

I need details on adoption and termination of parental rights. My son was born in 1989 in Harris Co. The biological father's name is not on the birth certificate. He has only seen his son a couple of times within the first few months of birth. My husband and I have been together since may of 90 and married since 92. He wants to adopt my son. The biological father has served time in prison, has never paid child support, has made no attempt to contact his son (although I'm easily located), and he can not be found (atleast with my resources). What is involved with terminating the bio father's rights and having my husband adopt the son he has raised for 14 yrs? How long would the process take? What is the approximate cost?


Asked on 8/22/04, 8:08 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
James Grissom Law Office of James P. Grissom

Re: Adoption of 15 yr old by step father

The parental rights of the natural father will have to be terminated. He can give his permission for this or it can be done without his permission. Usually, a judge will require a social study of you and your new husband. I doubt that an attorney for the child would be required but that is a possibility. If you want my assistance in this matter, you may contact me by e-mail.

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Answered on 8/23/04, 9:24 am


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