Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

Child Custody

My husband and I have been a 14 year old girl since November, and her sister who is 15 since October, because we were asked to by the parents. The parents said that they had no other choice. We had custody papers signed, by the real parents stating that they are living with us, and giving permission for them to be there. I also have insurance on them. But now the 14 year old does not want to go back, we are unsure about the 15 year old, as to what she wants to do, but we know for sure that the 14 year old does not want to go back. Is there a way we can file for adoption, and could we possibly win?


Asked on 4/16/07, 12:56 pm

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

Re: Child Custody

I'm not sure what custody papers you had signed by the real parents. Custody is a legal status to be determined and ruled upon by a judge. I don't know that you really had "custody". But, you can file for adoption and for termination of the parental rights for the 14 year-old. This is not an easy thing. The 14 year-old will likely have to testify why she wants to live with you and other evidence would have to be shown why the parental rights should be terminated if the parents oppose the adoption. These cases are full of risk because the 14 year-old can change her mind before the end and you're going to be out all of your attorneys fees to get this done. If you try to this without an attorney, be prepared to burn some mid-night oil studying up on all the procedures. That's what I had to do on my first 10-12. An I still make sure all the i's are dotted and the t's crossed.

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Answered on 4/16/07, 3:41 pm


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