Skip to contentSingle-Parent Adoption in Texas
Opening: A New Chapter as a Parent
For many people, the dream of becoming a parent is clear and powerful. But life doesn’t always follow a traditional path. You may be single, whether by choice or by circumstance, and still feel deeply called to provide a child with love, safety, and a forever home. If that’s you, you’re not alone. Every year, single adults in Texas successfully adopt children, proving that strong families are built on commitment and care—not just marital status.
At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we’ve helped countless single parents navigate the adoption process. We know that this journey comes with both excitement and questions, and we are here to provide the guidance and reassurance you need.
Can a Single Person Really Adopt in Texas?
Yes. Texas law does not require you to be married in order to adopt. The focus of adoption law is the best interest of the child, not the marital status of the adult hoping to adopt. As long as you can demonstrate stability, readiness, and the ability to provide for a child’s needs, you are eligible to move forward.
For many prospective parents, this is a relief. If you’ve hesitated because you thought adoption might only be possible for couples, rest assured: single parents are welcomed into the process.
The state does require that adoptive parents meet certain criteria. You must be at least 21 years old and able to show that you can financially provide for a child. That doesn’t mean you need to be wealthy—what matters is consistency and responsibility. A background check is required, along with a home study. The home study allows a licensed professional to get to know you, learn about your life, and assess the home environment you’re offering.
The Single-Parent Adoption Journey in Texas
Adoption is not a single event—it’s a series of important steps designed to ensure the safety and well-being of children. Understanding the journey ahead can help you prepare with confidence.
The first step is typically completing an application through the avenue you choose, whether that’s adopting through foster care, working with a licensed agency, or pursuing a private adoption. From there, you’ll begin the home study process. Many single parents feel anxious about this step, but it’s not meant to intimidate—it’s meant to confirm that a child would be entering a stable environment. The evaluator will ask about your background, lifestyle, support system, and your motivations for adoption.
Once the home study is complete and your background checks are cleared, you become eligible to be matched with a child. Depending on your chosen path, this may involve being selected by a birth parent, working with an agency, or being matched through the foster care system. When a child is placed in your home, you’ll typically go through a period of supervised placement. This allows the state and the courts to ensure the match is working well for both you and the child.
Finally, the process concludes with a court hearing. The judge will review your petition, confirm that all requirements have been met, and issue a final decree of adoption. At that moment, your parental rights are legally established, and you become, in every sense, your child’s parent.
The Rewards of Single-Parent Adoption
Though the process takes patience, the rewards are immeasurable. Single parents often describe adoption as the most meaningful decision they’ve ever made. For the child, it means stability, love, and a permanent home. For you, it means fulfilling your dream of parenthood and knowing that you’ve made a profound difference in a child’s life.
Your story as a single parent doesn’t have to be defined by limitations. Instead, it can be defined by the courage to step forward and the love you have to give.
Unique Challenges Single Parents Face
While the law is supportive of single-parent adoption, it’s natural to feel that your journey may be more challenging than that of a couple. Some single parents worry about being judged or overlooked during the process. Others wonder whether the absence of a second parent will affect their eligibility.
It’s important to remember that adoption professionals and courts look at the whole picture. They want to see that you can provide a safe and nurturing environment, that you have a reliable income, and that you have a support network—whether that’s extended family, close friends, or community resources. The presence of a partner is not what matters most; what matters is your commitment and your capacity to care for a child.
Another concern many single parents share is the financial aspect of adoption. While it’s true that adoption involves costs, there are different paths to adoption, and some are more affordable than others. Foster-to-adopt, for example, is often a lower-cost option, and there may be assistance programs available to help with expenses.
How the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC Supports You
We know that adoption can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re embarking on this journey without a partner by your side. That’s why our role is not only to provide legal services but also to act as your guide and advocate.
Our attorneys help you understand your eligibility, prepare you for the home study, and ensure that your paperwork and petitions are filed correctly. We stand with you in court and make sure your voice is heard and your rights are respected. Along the way, we answer your questions, address your concerns, and make sure you never feel alone in the process.
Because we’ve worked with many single parents across Texas, we understand the unique challenges and joys that come with this path. We bring both professional experience and compassion to every case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will being single slow down the adoption process?
No. The timeline for adoption depends more on the path you choose (foster care, agency, or private adoption) than on your marital status.
Do I need a large home to qualify?
No. What matters is that the space is safe and appropriate for a child, not the size of your house or apartment.
What if I work full-time?
Working full-time does not disqualify you. Many single parents balance careers and parenthood successfully. The court simply wants to see that you have a stable plan for childcare and support.
Can I adopt more than one child as a single parent?
Yes. The process and requirements remain the same, though your ability to provide for multiple children will be taken into account.
Can adult stepchildren be adopted?
Yes. Texas law allows adult adoption, often as a way to formalize bonds that have existed for years.
Contact Us Today
If you are considering adoption or have already started the process, we are here to guide you through every step. As an experienced adoption law firm in Texas, we offer compassionate legal advice and resources to help make your adoption journey smooth and successful.
Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced adoption attorneys. Let us help you build the family of your dreams.
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Headquarter: 3707 Cypress Creek Parkway Suite 400, Houston, TX 77068
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