Clients often come to us asking for advice on whether they should try to terminate parental rights of their child's other parent. In some of these cases, the biological parent has been literally absent for years, not paying support and not seeking visitation. Each state has specific laws regarding how parental rights may be terminated. This article pertains to the law in Texas. Parental rights … [Read more...] about Terminating Parental Rights of an Absent parent
parental rights
Terminating Child Support in the Case of Mistaken Paternity
A man who is paying child support for a child that he mistakenly thought was his own child may be able to seek termination of the parent-child relationship and the duty to pay child support. The case must meet certain requirements in order to proceed. First, a petition is filed in family court. A hearing is held and if the judge determines that certain criteria are met, genetic testing will be … [Read more...] about Terminating Child Support in the Case of Mistaken Paternity
Adult Adoption in Texas- Why, When and How Does it Affect Inheritance?
There are many reasons why an adoption may be commenced after the potential adoptee turns 18. In an adult adoption the biological parent or parents do not have to be contacted or give their consent as they would if the adoption were for a minor child. Therefore a stepparent who had wanted to adopt their stepchild for years but knew that it was impossible to get a biological parent’s consent … [Read more...] about Adult Adoption in Texas- Why, When and How Does it Affect Inheritance?
