When most people think of adoption, they picture infants or young children. But in Texas, it’s also possible to adopt an adult. Adult adoption can be a meaningful way to formalize an existing parent-child relationship, establish inheritance rights, or strengthen family bonds.
If you’re wondering how to adopt an adult in Texas, here’s what you need to know about the legal process, eligibility, and benefits.
Top Reasons to Adopt an Adult in Texas
There are many reasons families choose adult adoption, including:
- Formalizing a Relationship – Stepparents or relatives may wish to make their bond legally official once the child is over 18.
- Inheritance Rights – Adoption ensures that the adopted adult is legally treated as a child of the adoptive parent for inheritance purposes.
- Name Changes – The adult adoptee may wish to take the adoptive parent’s last name.
- Reconnecting Families – Adult adoption can restore legal ties between biological parents and adult children who were separated in the past.
WHO CAN ADOPT AN ADULT IN TEXAS?
Texas law allows any adult (18 years or older) to be adopted by another adult. Unlike child adoptions, the requirements are much simpler:
- The adoptee must consent in writing to the adoption.
- No termination of parental rights is required.
- No home study or background checks are necessary.
STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS: ADOPTING AN ADULT IN TEXAS
Step 1: File a Petition for Adult Adoption
The adoptive parent files a Petition to Adopt an Adult in the family district court of the county where either party resides. The petition must include basic details about both parties and the reason for adoption.
Step 2: Provide Written Consent
The adult being adopted must sign a written consent form agreeing to the adoption. This is a key requirement for the court to approve the adoption.
Step 3: Attend the Court Hearing
The court will schedule a hearing to review the petition. The judge will confirm the consent and may ask brief questions to ensure both parties understand the legal implications.
If everything is in order, the judge will issue a Final Order of Adoption.
Step 4: Update Legal Records
After the adoption is finalized, the adoptee can request:
- A legal name change (if desired)
- Updates to wills, insurance, or estate planning documents
- Recognition as a legal child of the adoptive parent under Texas law
COST OF ADULT ADOPTION IN TEXAS
Adult adoptions are generally low-cost compared to child adoptions. Typical expenses include:
- Court filing fees: $250–$400
- Attorney’s fees: $500–$2,000 (if legal help is used)
Because the process is straightforward, some families choose to file on their own, but legal assistance can ensure accuracy and prevent delays.
BENEFITS OF ADULT ADOPTION
- Establishes legal inheritance rights for the adopted adult
- Provides emotional closure for families who want formal recognition
- Allows for a name change during the adoption process
- Creates permanent legal recognition of the relationship
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do the biological parents lose their rights in an adult adoption?
No. Unlike child adoptions, adult adoption does not terminate parental rights—it simply creates a new legal parent-child relationship.
Can more than one person adopt the same adult?
Yes. A married couple may adopt an adult jointly.
How long does it take?
Most adult adoptions are finalized within one to two months, depending on court scheduling.
Do I need a lawyer?
While you are not legally required to hire an attorney, an adoption lawyer can make the process smoother, especially when filing the petition and preparing for court.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Adopting an adult in Texas is a relatively simple and meaningful process. Whether it’s to secure inheritance rights, legally recognize a lifelong bond, or unify a family, adult adoption provides lasting legal and emotional benefits.
Considering Adult Adoption in Texas?
Contact The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced adoption attorneys can guide you through the process and ensure that your adoption is handled smoothly 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.