Adult Adoption Attorney in Denton, TX

Adoption is not just for children. In Texas, adults can be adopted for a variety of personal, legal, or emotional reasons. Whether you are seeking to formalize a parent-child relationship, secure inheritance rights, or honor a long-standing family bond, adult adoption can be a meaningful and legally significant step.

At McGlothin Family Law, we guide clients across Denton County and the Dallas Fort Worth area through the adult adoption process with clarity and care. Attorney Kelsey McGlothin provides straightforward legal support to help you complete this special transition with confidence and efficiency.

What Is Adult Adoption?

Adult adoption allows one adult to legally adopt another adult who is at least 18 years old. Unlike child adoption, adult adoptions typically do not require a home study, termination of parental rights, or the involvement of Child Protective Services. The process is simpler, but it still requires court approval and proper documentation.

Reasons for adult adoption may include:

• Formalizing a long-standing parent-child relationship
• Securing legal inheritance rights
• Establishing next-of-kin status for medical or legal purposes
• Honoring a non-biological family connection
• Reconnecting after years of estrangement or separation

No matter the reason, adult adoption is a legally binding action that creates the same rights and responsibilities as a biological parent-child relationship.

Legal Requirements for Adult Adoption in Texas

Adult adoption is governed by the Texas Family Code. The basic requirements include:

• The adoptee must be at least 18 years old
• Both parties must consent to the adoption
• The adopting adult must file a petition in the appropriate court
• A court hearing must take place to finalize the adoption

In some cases, the court may also require consent from a spouse or provide notice to certain parties, depending on the circumstances.

We help you determine the proper jurisdiction, prepare the necessary documents, and represent you at the hearing to ensure a smooth and legally valid process.

The Adult Adoption Process

While adult adoptions are usually less complicated than child adoptions, it is still important to follow each step carefully to avoid unnecessary delays or rejections.

Step 1: Petition for Adoption

The adopting adult must file a petition in the county where either party resides. The petition must include the names, birth dates, and background information for both individuals, as well as the reason for the adoption.

Step 2: Signed Consents

Both parties must sign formal consent documents acknowledging that they agree to the adoption. In some cases, spouses of either party may also need to provide written consent.

Step 3: Final Hearing

A judge will review the petition, confirm that all legal requirements are met, and approve the adoption. The hearing is typically brief but still requires proper preparation and documentation.

Step 4: Final Order of Adoption

Once the court signs the final order, the adoption becomes official. The adoptee may choose to change their name, and the new legal relationship is recognized by the state for all purposes, including inheritance and next-of-kin matters.

Do I Need a Lawyer for Adult Adoption?

While adult adoptions are less complex than child adoptions, legal guidance is still important. Mistakes in paperwork, jurisdiction, or court procedures can lead to delays or denials. Having an attorney ensures:

• All required documents are properly drafted and filed
• The hearing is scheduled correctly and goes smoothly
• You understand the legal impact of the adoption
• Any issues with consent or name changes are handled properly

At McGlothin Family Law, we make sure your adoption process is handled professionally and efficiently from start to finish.

Why Choose McGlothin Family Law

Attorney Kelsey McGlothin understands that adult adoption is a deeply personal and emotional decision. Whether you are welcoming someone into your family or formalizing a bond that has existed for years, we are honored to be part of that journey.

Here is what sets our firm apart:

• Deep knowledge of Texas family law and local court procedures
• Clear communication and efficient case handling
• Respect for the emotional significance of your adoption
• Personal attention and straightforward guidance

We serve clients in Denton, Corinth, Argyle, Highland Village, and surrounding communities throughout North Texas.

Schedule a Consultation for Adult Adoption in Denton

If you are considering adult adoption in Texas, we invite you to take the next step with a trusted legal partner. McGlothin Family Law is here to ensure that your process is smooth, respectful, and legally secure.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your rights and your future.