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What Is Adoption?

Posted by Chris Peterson | Dec 02, 2014

In legal terms, adoption is the legal process by which a child and non-biological parent are brought together into a permanent relationship. An adoption gives the child all the rights that are enjoyed by biological children, including inheritance. However, adoption is much more than this, and there are many mistaken assumptions about it. The following is meant to provide insight into what adoption really means, but if you are considering adoption, you should speak with a Texas adoption attorney.

What Adoption Means

When you adopt a child, you accept him or her as a full-fledged member of your family. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) governs adoptions in this state, and places as top priority the best interests of the child. As such, the process is highly selective and rigorous. Some people are dissuaded by the stringent requirements for adoption, but if you are truly interested, you may find it among the most rewarding and important steps you ever take.

There are many thousands of children in need of adoption. Providing a nurturing, loving home is one of the greatest gifts you could ever bestow. However, you need to be honest with yourself and decide whether adoption is right for you. Many children waiting to be adopted come from very difficult living environments, and may bring so-called baggage into the family. If you have biological children, there may be difficulties with acceptance on both parts. You also need to make sure that you will never favor your biological children over the adopted child. This is very damaging. Finally, if the biological parents are involved in the child's life, the child may feel conflicted.

Misconceptions about Adoption

Many people who would be great candidates for adopting children have misconceptions which prevent them from pursuing adoption. Some believe that it is necessary to be wealthy. This is not at all true. You will, however, need to show that your financial resources are sufficient to care for an adoptive child. Another misconception is that only married couples may adopt. Again, this is not true. Single individuals can qualify for adoption. Finally, same sex couples are not excluded from consideration simply because of their life choice.

For Further Information

If you would like to learn more about adoption, or need assistance with the process, a Texas adoption lawyer at Peterson Law Group will be glad to help. Our firm is passionate about helping find good parents for children in need of a home. Call us today at 979-703-7014 or 936-337-4681.

About the Author

Chris Peterson

Chris Peterson is the owner of Peterson Law Group. He practices primarily in the areas of wills, trusts and estate planning; probate and trust administration; elder law; and business law. Chris is also the owner of Brazos 1031 Exchange Company.

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