Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

Mother abandoned child.

My soon to be husband has custody of his 3 years old son. The mother has had little contact with the son and none in 7 months. When we get married I would like to adopt him but we can't find the mother. We have very little money for attorney fees and would like to know if we could do the paperwork ourselves. Isn't there a time limit where she has abandoned him? Is there a proper format to petition the court for adoption and steps we can take? Or is there a good hearted attny who would take payments for these services?

We live in Houston Tx.

Thank you for your help


Asked on 12/27/00, 4:11 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

James Grissom Law Office of James P. Grissom

Re: Mother abandoned child.

The forms necessary to begin the adoption process are in the library and online at different sources. As an attorney, I cannot provide you with these forms because I would be exposed to malpractice. If there are no good hearted attorneys in Houston, who will take payments, I can do a payment plan. My fee would be $3,000 plus court costs and expenses. Court costs usually run about $800-$900 including a home study by the court. If the mother can't be found to serve her with the papers, she would have to be notified in the newspaper. That usually costs $300-$500. If you want my assistance, call me at 1-888-243-0560

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Answered on 12/29/00, 10:27 am
Fran Brochstein Attorney & Mediator

Re: Mother abandoned child.

I am in the Houston area and I offer free consultations.

There are forms in the Harris County Law Library downtown - located on Congress Avenue in the same building at juror selection occurs.

However, be advised that I do not think that you can do this yourself. It is complicated matter since termination of parental rights are taken very seriously by the Courts.

For example, several years ago I was appointed by the Court (pro bono) to act as representative for the child involved in a termination/adoption case. We had 2 trials and it went on for over 3 years. I tell this to you to prepare you for what you are about to undertake.

Check out my website at www.FamilyLaw4U.com

If you are interested, give me a call.

Best of luck to you!

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Answered on 12/29/00, 1:31 pm


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