Grandparents' & Relatives' Rights in Texas

Protecting Family Bonds. Prioritizing Children’s Best Interests.

At Haugen Law Firm, P.C., we know that family doesn’t begin and end with parents alone. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other relatives often play an essential role in a child’s life—especially when the child’s home environment becomes unstable due to divorce, neglect, substance abuse, or other hardships.

Whether you're seeking custody, visitation, or even adoption of a grandchild or relative, our experienced family law attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and take decisive legal action when a child's well-being is at stake.

Understanding Grandparents’ Rights in Texas

In Texas, grandparents do not have automatic custody or visitation rights. However, under specific circumstances, when grandparents have standing, they may petition the court for:

• Visitation rights (when access is unjustly denied)
• Temporary or permanent custody (managing conservatorship)
• Adoption of a grandchild, when it serves the child’s best interests, and parental rights have been terminated

Courts in Texas focus heavily on what is in the best interest of the child. This means demonstrating that your involvement provides a stable, nurturing environment and—when seeking custody or adoption—that the biological parents are unable or unfit to care for the child.

Our attorneys have handled numerous cases involving grandparent and relative custody, and we understand how emotionally complex and urgent these matters can be.

When Can Grandparents or Relatives Pursue Custody or Adoption?

You may have legal grounds to seek custody or adopt a grandchild or relative if:

• The child has been living with you for an extended period (at least 6 months in most cases)
• One or both parents are deceased, incarcerated, or missing
• The child’s environment is physically or emotionally harmful
• CPS has been involved and the child is removed from the home
• The parent has voluntarily relinquished parental rights

In such cases, relatives can file for Managing Conservatorship or begin the process of adoption, often following or alongside the termination of parental rights.

Legal Support for Stepparents, Aunts, Uncles, and Other Relatives

Beyond grandparents, Texas law permits other relatives to pursue conservatorship or adoption under specific conditions. Whether you’re a stepparent, older sibling, or extended family member, we can help determine whether you have legal standing—and guide you through the process with skill and compassion.

What Sets Haugen Law Apart

At Haugen Law, we understand both the legal landscape and the human side of these cases. Our team of attorneys brings:

• Deep experience in Texas family courts
• Child-centered legal strategies
• Strong negotiation and litigation skills
• A reputation for integrity and compassion

When you need someone who will fiercely advocate for a child’s safety while honoring family ties, we’re ready to step in.

Let’s Talk About Your Options

If you’re concerned about a child’s well-being or believe you may have a legal right to custody, visitation, or adoption, don’t wait. The sooner you take action, the more options you may have under Texas law.

Call Haugen Law Firm, P.C. at (972) 460-6798. Serving families across Lewisville, Denton, Flower Mound, Highland Village, and surrounding North Texas communities.