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Adoption offers families a powerful way to grow, provide stability, and change lives, but many people understandably ask:
How long is the adoption process in Texas?
The truth is, adoption can take anywhere from a few months to several years depending on the type of adoption, court procedures, and whether biological parental rights have already been terminated. This blog explains typical timelines and what affects how long your adoption may take.
AVERAGE ADOPTION TIMELINES IN TEXAS
| Type of Adoption | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Stepparent Adoption | 3 to 6 months |
| Kinship Adoption | 3 to 6 months |
| Private Infant Adoption | 6 to 12 months |
| Foster Care Adoption | 6 to 18 months |
| International Adoption | 12 to 36 months |
| Adult Adoption | 1 to 2 months |
These are general estimates. Some cases move faster, while others experience delays due to court availability, paperwork, or contested parental rights.
WHAT AFFECTS THE LENGTH OF THE ADOPTION PROCESS?
1. Type of Adoption
- Adult adoptions are typically the fastest, often requiring only one court hearing.
- Stepparent and kinship adoptions move relatively quickly if uncontested.
- Private and foster care adoptions involve more oversight and requirements.
- International adoptions are the most time-consuming due to legal coordination between countries.
2. Termination of Parental Rights
In most cases, the biological parents’ rights must be legally terminated before the adoption is finalized. If voluntary, this step may be fast. If contested, it can extend the process by several months or more.
3. Home Study Requirements
Home studies are required in most adoptions (except adult adoptions) and include criminal background checks, interviews, and home inspections. Scheduling and completing a home study can take several weeks to months.
4. Court Scheduling and Procedures
Delays often occur due to backlogged court calendars, especially in high-population counties. Having legal representation can help ensure that paperwork is filed properly and hearings are scheduled efficiently.
5. Child’s Residency Requirement
In many cases, especially with private or foster adoptions, the child must live with the adoptive family for a period—commonly six months—before the adoption can be finalized.
HOW TO AVOID DELAYS IN YOUR ADOPTION
- Submit all forms and documents accurately and on time
- Complete background checks and fingerprinting promptly
- Stay in close contact with your attorney or caseworker
- Attend all required meetings, training sessions, and court dates
- Respond quickly to any additional requests from the court or agency
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can we complete an adoption in under six months?
Yes. Some stepparent, kinship, or adult adoptions can be finalized in as little as three months, especially if uncontested and well-documented.
Is the process faster if we already have custody?
In some cases, yes. If the child already lives with you and parental rights are terminated, finalization may be quicker.
Can an adoption take longer than a year?
Yes. Adoptions involving contested termination, international procedures, or agency delays can take 12–24 months or longer.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Adoption in Texas can be a lengthy process, but it’s also a deeply rewarding one. The key to a smoother experience is preparation, legal guidance, and patience. With the right support, your family can navigate the adoption process confidently and efficiently.
Bryan Fagan is a Texas family law attorney with a heart for adoption—inspired not just by his legal career, but by his own family story. Growing up in Atascocita with two adopted brothers, Bryan learned early the profound meaning of chosen family. His passion for justice was sparked by John Grisham’s The Pelican Brief, and he became the first lawyer in his family, balancing night classes at South Texas College of Law while caring for his grandmother with Alzheimer’s.
Today, Bryan brings that same dedication to his practice, guiding families through adoptions, custody disputes, divorces, and complex marital agreements. A certified member of the College of the State Bar of Texas, he combines elite legal expertise with genuine empathy—drawing from his roles as a husband, father of three, and advocate for families facing false CPS allegations.
Based in Houston, Bryan is actively involved in the Houston Bar Association’s Family Law Sector and statewide family law organizations. Whether finalizing an adoption or protecting parental rights, he believes the law should reflect the deepest values of home, commitment, and love.
