What is the legal process for adopting a child in foster care?
There are over 30,000 children currently in foster care in Texas. While some kids in foster care will ultimately be reunited with their biological parents, many more are in need of a new family though adoption. Children available for adoption range in age from infants to older teens. Some foster kids have siblings who are also in need of adoption, while others are special needs. Electing to adopt a child from the foster care system can be a wonderful choice for both the child and your family. Our Midland, Texas adoption attorneys discuss the requirements for foster care adoption and the process below.
Requirements for Adopting from Foster Care in Texas
To adopt a child from foster care, you will need to meet the following requirements:
- You must be at least 21 years of age;
- You need to demonstrate that you are financially stable and responsible;
- You will share information about your lifestyle and background;
- Provide relative and non-relative references;
- Agree to a home study, which will include a visit with all members of your household and an inspection of your home;
- Complete a criminal history background check;
- Attend free training to learn about the needs of abused children.
Adoptive parents can be single, married, or divorced. The most important characteristic of an adoptive family is the ability to support and love your new child.
The Adoption Process
Your adoption journey should start with research and planning. You will need to sit down with an adoption law attorney who will assist you in determining what type of adoption is right for your family. Your attorney can help you through the application and approval process. Completing your application fully and honestly is the first step towards successfully bringing your child home in the near future.
Adopting from foster care is often less expensive than newborn or international adoptions, and typically proceeds far faster. Your adoption attorney will guide you through the adoption and assist you with any obstacles you may face. You can make your dreams of a family come true and give a child in foster care the loving family they need all through adoption.