Adoption Lawyer in Arlington, TX
Guiding Families With Care and Confidence
- Board-certified family law attorneys
- Decades of experience handling Texas adoption matters
- Trusted guidance for complex and out-of-state adoptions
- Advocacy that provides confidence and peace of mind
Why Choose Harris Cook Law for Adoption in Arlington, TX?
Board-Certified Family Law Attorneys
Adoption is a life-changing decision with permanent legal implications. Our team includes board-certified family law attorneys who have met high standards of expertise and peer evaluation, giving families confidence that every step of the adoption process is handled with advanced knowledge and proven judgment.
Decades of Adoption Representation in Texas
Texas adoption laws have evolved significantly over the years. Our attorneys have helped hopeful parents navigate adoption for decades, helping them understand current requirements, anticipate challenges, and move forward with clarity and confidence throughout the process.
We Handle Complex and Out-of-State Adoptions
Not all adoptions are straightforward. From open adoptions and post-adoption agreements to adoptions involving children born out of state, we regularly handle complex matters that require careful planning and attention to detail. Our role is to protect your family, your rights, and the integrity of the adoption from start to finish.
We Can Give You Compassionate Guidance
Adoption is filled with hope, excitement, and understandable uncertainty. Legal missteps can create delays, stress, or long-term complications. At Harris Cook Law, we combine deep legal experience with a calm, supportive approach that helps families make informed decisions at every stage.
Whether you are just beginning to explore adoption or navigating a more complex situation, your family law attorney in Arlington, TX, is ready to listen, guide, and help you move forward with confidence toward growing your family.
“David was very compassionate with our current situation but was also very proactive in looking ahead and advising us in a direction that would be best for our family. David was so confident and professional through all of the ups & downs. We knew we were in great hands and we feel so blessed to have achieved the outcome that David and his staff worked so hard for.” — Michelle, 5-Star Review
Are Adoption Attorneys Expensive? An Explanation of Legal Costs for Adoption
They can be, but legal representation can save you significant time, stress, and frustration over the long term.
The Price Reflects the Service
Adoption attorneys manage the paperwork, deadlines, and legal requirements involved in the adoption process. Without an attorney, mistakes can be costly and may delay or jeopardize your adoption.
When you work with Harris Cook Law, we handle the legal details so your interests and your child’s best interests are protected.
Legal Fee Transparency
Every adoption is unique, which is why we do not offer flat fees.
During your initial consultation, we will review your case and outline expected legal fees in a written contract that you may sign or take home for review.
Help With All Types of Adoption
There are several types of adoption you can pursue, and our Arlington, TX, family law office can assist with all of them, including:
Post-Adoption Agreements
Helping Set Boundaries in Open Adoptions
Texas does not impose set rules on open adoptions. Instead, birth parents and adoptive parents decide together what level of contact they are comfortable maintaining after the adoption is finalized.
Get an Open Adoption Agreement in Writing
To avoid misunderstandings or hurt feelings, it is often helpful to document expectations in writing. Will there be annual letters and photos? Occasional visits? More frequent communication? A post-adoption agreement can help clarify expectations so they do not become obstacles later.
Using the Agreement to Discuss Expectations
Post-adoption agreements are not legally enforceable in Texas. Their value lies in ensuring that everyone understands expectations from the outset. If feelings or circumstances change, the agreement can also provide a framework for revisiting what is working and what may need adjustment.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Top-Rated Law Firm
Adopting and growing your family are exciting decisions, and an attorney can help ensure the process is handled smoothly and efficiently.
Harris Cook Law is a top-rated law firm that has helped families in Arlington, Southlake, and Mansfield navigate the adoption process for more than three decades. Our attorneys are known for their compassionate approach and consistent results, earning numerous five-star reviews from families across Texas.
"This experience was the first time I felt heard throughout any family court process. I’d recommend them to any friend or family member!" — Connor, 5-Star Review
To speak with an adoption attorney about your case, request a consultation online or call:
Eligibility to Become an Adoptive Parent
In Texas, adults must meet certain eligibility requirements to adopt a child. Factors include:
Age: Adoptive parents must be at least 21 years old. Texas does not set minimum or maximum age limits for adopted children, though foster care may be more appropriate for older children in some cases.
Marital Status: Texas law does not prohibit married or unmarried individuals from adopting. If you are married, you must adopt jointly with your spouse, including in stepparent adoptions.
Health and Financial Means: Adoptive parents must be in good overall health and demonstrate adequate financial stability to support a child.
The Right Home Environment: Homeownership is not required. However, adoptive families must show they can provide a stable, safe, and supportive home.
LGBTQ+ Adoption in Texas
Married and unmarried same-sex couples may legally adopt or foster children in Texas. Some agencies may have additional requirements based on religious affiliation. An attorney can help LGBTQ+ individuals and couples navigate these situations.
Criminal Records and Adoption
How Felonies and Misdemeanors Affect Eligibility
Certain criminal offenses may prevent individuals from adopting or fostering a child to ensure the child’s safety.
Crimes that result in an absolute bar include offenses against a minor, as well as:
- Sexual assault
- Murder or manslaughter
- Domestic violence
- Arson
- Stalking
- Voyeurism
Applying for a Risk Evaluation
Individuals without an absolute bar may still be eligible to adopt or foster after completing a formal risk evaluation. This process reviews the results of the prospective parent’s background check.
Our attorneys can help assemble and submit the required materials on time.
We’ll Help You Navigate Texas Adoption Laws
When you choose Harris Cook Law, we work to protect your rights and ensure the adoption process complies with all applicable laws. This helps safeguard your adoption against legal challenges or fraud.
If you live in Southlake, Mansfield, or nearby, contact our Arlington office to request an initial consultation:
Reduce the Stress of Child Adoption
Adoption is an emotional and life-changing experience. Our Arlington practice focuses on reducing stress for families in Southlake, Mansfield, and nearby communities by managing legal details and explaining what to expect at every stage.
Start growing your family today. Contact our firm online or call:
Trust the Complexities of International Adoption to Our Team
International adoption involves unique legal challenges. Our firm assists families by:
- Connecting you with licensed Texas adoption agencies
- Verifying agency accreditation
- Gathering documentation for international home studies
- Filing immigration paperwork with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
- Securing visas
- Finalizing or re-adopting through U.S. courts when required
Fostering to Adopt Making a Foster Child a Permanent Part of Your Family
Texas foster care prioritizes reunification with biological families. When reunification is not possible and parental rights are terminated, adoption may become an option.
Many foster families develop strong bonds and choose to adopt. Our adoption attorneys in Arlington and Southlake can guide you through this transition.
If you are interested in fostering, with or without adoption, our firm can help you understand the process.
Grandparent Adoption A Way to Keep Biological Families Together
Grandparents often step in when parents cannot provide adequate care. While adoption may seem unnecessary, it can offer important legal protections.
Medical Care: Adoption gives you legal authority to make medical decisions and name a guardian in your will.
State Assistance: Adopted grandchildren may qualify for state healthcare or other benefits.
A Stable Home: Adoption reinforces your commitment and provides stability within the family.
If grandparent adoption is an option you are considering, contact our family law attorneys in Southlake or Arlington:
Texas Adoption FAQ
How long does the adoption process take?
Timelines vary based on the type of adoption, termination of parental rights, and case-specific factors. Adoption can take several months to a year or longer.
Do I need to wait for formal termination of parental rights?
Not always. Involuntary termination may occur in cases such as abandonment, endangerment, or failure to support a child.
Can I adopt a teenager?
Yes. Children aged 12 or older must generally consent unless the court waives the requirement.
Will divorce or children from a previous marriage affect adoption or fostering?
Possibly. Family dynamics vary, and additional petitions may be required, especially for stepparent adoptions. Our attorneys can help navigate these issues.
