Adoption in Texas: What You Need to Know

by | Sep 12, 2023 | Uncategorized

Adoption can be a complex and beautiful journey, but it’s often misunderstood. Many birth mothers aren’t aware of how much control they have or the resources available to them through the adoption process. 

Today, we’re answering some common questions about adoption in Texas[1], to shed light on this brave and loving decision. Keep reading to learn more. 

What are the Different Types of Adoption?

Did you know that you get to decide how much contact you want to have with your child and the adoptive family–both during and after the adoption takes place? Based on how often you’d like to communicate, you can choose open, closed, or semi-open adoption.

What if I Want as Much Communication as Possible?

If you’d like to play an active role in your child’s life, an open adoption[2] might be a good choice for you. Open adoption allows you to communicate directly with the adoptive family, whether through emails and letters, phone and video calls, or even in-person visits. 

Please keep in mind that laws around adoption plans are subject to change. There are many benefits to open adoption plans, but they are not legally enforceable in Texas. The courts will not get involved in disputes between birth and adoptive parents. Learning about adoption options in Texas should involve an experienced adoption attorney.

What if I Want Little to No Communication?

Perhaps you feel that it would be easier to close this chapter of your life by remaining anonymous. In that case, you could choose a closed adoption[2], which does not allow for any communication between you, the adoptive parents, or the child after it’s been born. 

 

Neither you nor the adoptive family shares any identifying information, such as names or addresses. However, the adoptive family does receive a copy of your medical history, so they can get the proper care for the child if medical issues arise. 

What if I Want Something in Between?

If you’re looking for a happy medium between open and closed adoption, consider semi-open adoption[2]. Semi-open adoption is similar to open adoption, except all communication with the adoptive family is managed by the adoption agency. 

 

You can decide whether to stay in touch or distance yourself over time. Regardless, you can still receive pictures and updates from the adoptive family, usually through a secure portal on the adoption agency’s website. 

 

You get to choose the adoption type that best fits your unique circumstances. However, your feelings can change over time. You may start out thinking a semi-open adoption would be best, but later decide you’d like to be more involved in your child’s life and switch to open adoption. You can even change your mind and back out of the adoption before a certain point (more on that in a moment). Whatever your circumstances, you’re in charge of your adoption plan, each step of the way. 

Do I Get to Choose the Adoptive Parents?

Depending on the adoption agency, lawyer, or facilitator your work with, you may be able to select the adoptive parents[2]. Adoption agencies usually provide profiles of hopeful families so you can find the perfect match. 

 

Once you’ve made your selection, the adoptive family is required to complete a home study to ensure the child is placed in a safe home. The adoption agency will interview the parents, conduct background checks, review medical histories, conduct background checks, and speak to references. Adoptive families may even undergo training to prepare them for adoption[2]. 

Do Birth Mothers Receive Financial Assistance? 

To help you get all the care and support you need, the adoption agency or the adoptive family can cover some of your expenses. This may include your[3]: 

 

  • Maternity-related medical and hospital costs ƒ 
  • Temporary living expenses of the mother during pregnancy ƒ
  • Counseling fees ƒ 
  • Attorney and legal fees and guardian ad litem fees
  • Travel costs, meals, and lodging when necessary for court appearances or accessing services 

 

The exact amount paid for birth mother expenses is usually limited to what’s considered “reasonable and customary”[3]. Your adoption professional can determine the financial aid you qualify for.

Free Adoption Resources in San Antonio, TX

If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and considering adoption in Texas (or just want to learn more), speak to a client advocate at Resources for Women. We’re here to help you explore adoption without any pressure or commitment. Whenever you’re ready, we’ll connect you with our trusted adoption partners, so you can create an adoption plan on your terms. 

 

Call us at (210) 651-1611, text us at (210) 638-8221, or schedule your free appointment online today.

Sources

  1. FAMILY CODE CHAPTER 162. ADOPTION. Texas Constitution and Statutes. (2020, January 1). https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.162.htm
  2. Could Open Adoption be the Best Choice for You and Your Baby? Child Welfare Information Gateway. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubPDFs/openadoption.pdf
  3. Child Welfare Information Gateway. (2022). Regulation of Private Domestic Adoption Expenses. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Children’s Bureau. Retrieved from https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubPDFs/expenses.pdf