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How to Start the Adoption Process

Posted by Chris Peterson | Nov 05, 2014 | 0 Comments

How to Start the Adoption Process

How to Start the Adoption ProcessThe adoption process in Texas is quite involved. The Texas Department of Family Protective Services, or DFPS, requires that prospective adoptive parents successfully complete several steps in the assessment process before they become eligible to adopt. If you have any difficulties meeting their standards, or need assistance with your adoption, a Bryan adoption attorney with our firm will work with you.

Step One: The Informational Meeting

The DFPS requires all who hope to adopt through a state program to begin by attending an informational meeting. At this meeting the adoption process will be explained in detail, as well as state requirements. Chief among these are:

  • Both parents must be at least 21 years old.
  • They must show that they are financially stable.
  • They must pass a check to determine whether either has a history of abuse or neglect.
  • Both must pass a criminal background check.
  • The prospective adoptive parents must agree to a home study.

Step Two: Individual Assessment

At this step DFPS officials will meet individually with prospective candidates to assess their fitness. This will involve a series of questions related to issues named above, as well as why they wish to adopt, living arrangements, and their health. Officials will also answer questions, and might ask whether the couple would be interested in adopting a special needs child, if they are seen as fit to do so.

Step Three: The Training Course

The candidates will then be required to finish a 35 hour training course entitled Parent Resource Information Development Education, or PRIDE. The purpose of this course is to help prospective adopting parents understand the many issues that may arise with adoption, as well as an overview of child development.

Step Four: The Home Study

Officials will be looking in particular at whether the candidates are an overall good fit for adopting. This is a much more subjective assessment step than the others, for it takes into account so many factors. Assuming all goes well the candidates will then be matched with an appropriate child.

We Can Help You with Your Adoption

The process of adoption can feel overwhelming. However, a Bryan adoption lawyer can help alleviate concerns you have and prepare you for the various challenges you will face in order that you are able to adopt the child best suited to your family and circumstances. Call Peterson Law Group today at 979-703-7014.

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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