Termination & Adoption

Termination & Adoption in Texas

Helping You Build or Protect the Family You Deserve

At Haugen Law Firm, P.C., we understand that adoption is not just a legal transaction—it’s a life-changing event. Whether you’re looking to welcome a child into your home or take legal steps to protect a child’s well-being, our team of family law attorneys is here to guide you with clarity, care, and strength.

Based in Lewisville and proudly serving families across Denton County, we help clients navigate the complex, emotional, and often delicate legal processes of termination of parental rights and adoption—ensuring that every step is handled with the precision and compassion your family deserves.

Texas Adoption Law: What You Need to Know

Adoption legally establishes a parent-child relationship between individuals who are not biologically related. It grants the adoptive parent(s) the same rights and responsibilities as biological parents and often involves legally terminating one or both birthparents’ parental rights before finalization.

At Haugen Law, our attorneys assist with a wide range of adoption cases, including:

  • Stepparent Adoptions
  • Relative or Grandparent Adoptions
  • Agency Adoptions
  • Private or Independent Adoptions
  • Foster-to-Adopt
  • Same-Sex Couple and Single-Parent Adoptions
  • Adult Adoptions

We help you navigate the paperwork, court appearances, and home studies involved in the process, working hard to protect your rights and eliminate delays.

Termination of Parental Rights in Texas

Before most adoptions can proceed, parental rights must be legally terminated—either voluntarily by the biological parent(s) or involuntarily through a court order. Termination is a serious legal step and must meet strict legal standards under Texas law.

Voluntary Termination typically occurs when a biological parent agrees that adoption is in the child’s best interest.  
Involuntary Termination may happen when there is a history of:

  • Abandonment or neglect
  • Abuse or endangerment
  • Failure to support the child financially or emotionally
  • Criminal conduct or imprisonment

At Haugen Law Firm, we approach termination cases with strategic precision and emotional sensitivity, always keeping the child’s safety and long-term stability at the forefront.

Open vs. Closed Adoptions: What’s Right for You?

Adoptions in Texas may be either open (where the birthparents and adoptive parents share information and maintain contact) or closed (where identities remain confidential). We will walk you through the pros and cons of each model and help you structure an agreement that aligns with your preferences and the child’s best interests.

We also counsel clients on important considerations, such as:

  • Post-placement contact agreements
  • Financial support allowed during pregnancy
  • Interstate and international adoption complexities
  • The rights of biological fathers

Why Families Choose Haugen Law

Our firm brings more than just legal skill—we bring real-world experience, strong community roots, and a child-centered approach. Whether you're growing your family through adoption or seeking to protect a child through termination, we provide:

  • Clear communication
  • Detailed guidance through every legal step
  • Extensive courtroom experience when needed
  • Compassionate, responsive service from start to finish

Begin the Next Chapter With Confidence

Bringing a child into your life—or ensuring their protection—is one of the most meaningful decisions you can make. Let Haugen Law Firm, P.C. help you take that step with confidence and peace of mind.

Call us today at (972) 460-6798. Serving families in Lewisville, Flower Mound, Highland Village, Denton County, and surrounding areas.

What Our Clients Are Saying

  • Dallas Bar Association
  • Denton Bar Association
  • Lead Counsel Rated
  • American Association for Justice
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