Adult Adoption Attorney in San Antonio
Some relationships take time to grow. If you’ve stepped into a parental role or been part of a family that never had the paperwork to match, adult adoption is one way to formalize that bond. In Texas, this process gives adults the ability to legally establish a parent-child relationship—often for emotional, legal, or practical reasons.
At Brandi Wolfe Law, we guide families through adult adoption with clarity and care. The process is simpler than child adoption but still requires the right legal steps.
Common Reasons for Adult Adoption
People pursue adult adoption for all kinds of reasons, including:
- Formalizing a lifelong step-parent or foster relationship
- Reuniting with a biological parent after years apart
- Securing inheritance or legal next-of-kin rights
- Clarifying legal responsibilities for care and decision-making
- Honoring a bond that’s stronger than biology
This process can be powerful and deeply meaningful—and it’s often surprisingly straightforward when handled correctly.
How Adult Adoption Works in Texas
Here’s a quick overview of the legal steps involved:
1. Consent
Both the adoptive parent and the adult being adopted must agree to the adoption in writing. If the adoptee is married, their spouse must also give consent.
2. Petition for Adoption
We file a petition in the county where either party resides. This includes basic background information and the reasons for the adoption.
3. Court Hearing
The judge reviews the paperwork and typically asks a few questions in a short hearing. Both parties generally attend. Most hearings are simple and positive.
4. Final Decree of Adoption
Once the judge is satisfied, the adoption is approved, and the legal parent-child relationship is established.
5. Amended Birth Certificate
The adoptee can request a new birth certificate listing the adoptive parent, giving legal recognition to the relationship.
Importantly, adult adoption in Texas does not automatically terminate any existing parental rights unless that’s part of a separate proceeding.
Legal and Financial Implications
Adult adoption affects more than names—it can impact inheritance rights, next-of-kin decisions, and certain benefits. We’ll walk you through what this means for your family and help you avoid any legal surprises down the road.
If your adoption is part of a larger legal situation—such as termination of parental rights or guardianship—we’ll make sure everything fits together.
Make the Relationship Official
If you’ve already been family in every way that matters, this is how you make it legal. We’ll handle the paperwork and court steps so you can focus on what this moment really represents.
Call (210) 571-0400 or schedule your free adult adoption consultation. We’ll answer your questions, explain the process, and help you move forward.