Collin County Adoption Attorney
Legal Guidance to Help Your Family Grow
Adoption is a gift for those who are unable to have children of their own. It brings together grateful parents and children longing to have a home. As wonderful as the act of adoption is, it can often be a confusing journey. Many families are stymied by red tape and a lack of clarity. However, the right adoption attorney can guide you through the process as painlessly as possible.
Read on to learn the answers to some common questions about adopting a child in Collin County. For personalized service, reach out to Cross Family Law, PLLC by calling (972) 675-7792.
What Is an Adoption Attorney?
An adoption lawyer is just what it sounds like, an attorney who will helps people through the adoption process. Adoption lawyers help prospective parents adopt a child. They also help biological parents to abdicate their rights to a child, allowing the adoption of the child by another party. The attorney guides their clients through the adoption process, advising them on different types of adoption as well as legal and financial impacts.
Adoption attorneys file all the required legal paperwork with the courts and act as an advocate on their client’s behalf. They are also familiar with family law and can address specific laws that a general lawyer may not be able to answer. It’s beneficial to have an attorney who can quickly and accurately address any legal issues that arise during the adoption process. In some cases, it may be expected by the biological parent or parents that the adopting party covers all expenses involved in adopting a child. An adoption attorney looks at the expenses and then negotiates the costs on behalf of their client to minimize the financial impact.
Do You Need an Attorney for Adoption?
In short, you don’t need an attorney to adopt a child in Texas. With that being said, it’s not wise to attempt to adopt a child when you’re not familiar with the process and any hidden pitfalls that may await you. An adoption attorney makes sure that the paperwork is correct. This prevents delays due to improper documents being sent to the court.
In adoption, time is of the essence. Delays from filling out a form incorrectly can lead to long delays or a loss of opportunity to adopt the child. Potential parents must complete several steps before they are able to adopt a child. Our Collin County adoption attorney is familiar with these requirements and can simplify the process to make sure that each one is met. If you forego hiring a lawyer who focuses on adoption, you’re increasing the risk of not being able to adopt.
Do Stepparents Need an Adoption Attorney to Adopt?
It is only natural for a stepparent who loves their stepchild to want to legally adopt them. You don’t need a lawyer in the state of Texas for a stepparent who is married to the biological parent of a child to adopt. The stepparent can petition the court to adopt their stepchild without the aid of a lawyer, but it is unwise to go through the adoption process without someone who has a thorough legal knowledge of how the proceedings work.
Some aspects of stepparent adoption are quite complex. If the second biological parent of the stepchild is still living, they will have to relinquish their rights to the child. This is a vital step when it comes to adoption. Many times, without an experienced attorney, this is where the adoptive parent runs into trouble.
Do You Need to Go to Court to Adopt a Child?
In the state of Texas, both prospective parents and the adoptee (12 years old and up) must appear in court. In some instances, the court may waive this requirement if it’s in the child’s best interest. This requirement also applies to step parents and stepchildren. Appear in court without an adoption attorney may limit your ability to answer some of the legal aspects of the process. This could potentially jeopardize the chances of successfully adopting the child you want.
What Is an Order of Adoption?
An order of adoption is simply a court document stating that the two people who adopt a child are the child’s legal parents. It serves as a way to identify the parents of the child. This document plays an important role when it comes to registering the child for school or to state the parents can make decisions on behalf of their child. Using an adoption attorney ensures that there are no errors in the document. A clean document can help prevent issues that may arise at a later date.
What Are the Costs to Adopt a Child in Texas?
Adoption costs range from $5000 to upwards of $40,000 in the state of Texas. A Collin County adoption attorney can advise you to make sure you are not overpaying for your adoption.
An Adoption Lawyer You Can Depend On
If you’re seeking to adopt a child in Collin County, Texas, you’ll need a guide through the process. At Cross Family Law, PLLC, our highly qualified attorney understands all forms of adoption in Texas. We also make it a point to keep you informed every step of the way.
During the adoption process a social worker or other state official will evaluate your home’s living conditions. They also evaluate you and your spouse to ensure you’re capable parents. Any misunderstandings or mistakes by officials could count against you in the adoption process. This is another reason why an adoption attorney is so important. We are able to help clear up misconceptions and get the adoption back on track.
If you are a resident of the greater Collin County, let Cross Family Law, PLLC help you with your adoption case. Call our lawyer today at (972) 675-7792. We will be happy to help you!
Results Matter Real People Share Real Stories
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The precise manner in which he tackles his work is unmatched
“Mr. Cross is an excellent attorney. I absolutely recommend him to anyone. The precise manner in which he tackles his work is unmatched. His devotion to his clients is clearly seen from the moment you walk into his office.”
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He is empathetic, knowledgeable, and professional and would highly recommend to everyone.
“Mr. Cross helped me through an emotional and stressful issue that involved my children and ex-husband. He listened to my concerns regarding the situation and walked me through, step by step, making me feel comfortable. He is empathetic, knowledgeable, and professional and would highly recommend to everyone.”
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My clients have been incredibly satisfied with his involvement and I will continue to refer my clients to him!
“Travis Cross is extremely knowledgeable, great at what he does, and is always only a phone call away. I send all of my clients in need of Family Law advice, whether they are going through a divorce or need enforcement of a previous order of the Court. My clients have been incredibly satisfied with his involvement and I will continue to refer my clients to him.”
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He really fought for what I was entitled to and made sure the I's were dotted and the T's were crossed!
“I hired Travis and I couldn't have asked for a better experience, in a not so great situation! He really fought for what I was entitled to and made sure the I's were dotted and the T's were crossed! I would recommend him for any and all of your family law needs!”
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The precise manner in which he tackles his work is unmatched. His devotion to his clients is clearly seen from the moment you walk into his office.
“Mr. Cross is an excellent attorney. I absolutely recommend him to anyone. The precise manner in which he tackles his work is unmatched. His devotion to his clients is clearly seen from the moment you walk into his office.”
Our Core Values Why Choose Us for Your Needs
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Family is EverythingWe're always here for you as an extension of your family. After your case has been resolved, we'll check in to make sure you're alright and to say hello. Abby will always be ready to greet you at the our office door with a big smile and hug.
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Your Advocate & Biggest CheerleaderWe're by your side through every step of process as your attorney and motivator. When the going gets crazy or tough, we're here to keep pushing you forward. We're here to celebrate every milestone and victory with you, no matter how big or small.
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We're Here to Listen & GuideWhen you have a question or thought about your case, you can reach Attorney Travis directly. We understand the emotional, logistical, and financial complexities you and your family are going through. We'll help you navigate the waters to find a meaningful resolution.
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Personalized Approach to Your CaseEvery family has a unique set of circumstances and needs requiring a carefully crafted approach. We want to listen to your story - your perspective and experience matter. From there, we create and execute a plan tailored to the needs of you and your family.