Austin Stepparent Adoption Lawyer

Guiding You Through Every Step of the Adoption Process

When you are ready to adopt your stepchild, you don't want any obstacles to get in the way. Family law attorney Ryan Dougay understands that this is an important step for your blended family. He is committed to helping you achieve a smooth transition through efficiently handling your paperwork and court proceedings.

At The Law Office of Ryan S. Dougay, the distinguishing factor at our law firm is our drive towards personal service. We will take the time to understand your unique situation, so we can help you achieve a positive outcome. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation and discover the benefit of our hands-on approach.

Blending Families Through Stepparent Adoptions

Family law attorney Ryan Dougay will walk you through the two-step adoption process, making sure your questions and concerns are fully addressed. First, the biological parent's rights must be terminated.

In some circumstances, biological parents voluntarily relinquish their parental rights and no longer have to pay child support. We also handle cases when biological parents refuse to terminate their parental rights. Attorney Dougay is quick to advocate in the child's best interests, showing a lack of parental involvement or child support payments for at least a year. In other situations, the biological parent may have passed away so their rights are terminated by default.

Once the biological parent's rights are terminated, we will make sure you have fulfilled all of the criteria to become a stepparent, such as:

• Lived with the child for at least six months
• Passed a criminal background check
• Completed a home study evaluation conduct by an guardian ad litem to determine if you are fit to be a good parent

After the stepparent adoption process is complete, you will have the same legal responsibilities and duties as the biological parent. The legal obligations you have to your stepchild will continue even if your marriage ends in a divorce.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

The Law Office of Ryan S. Dougay can assist you with any questions you have about your stepparent obligations. Contact our Austin, Texas, law firm today by e-mail or call 512.469.0811 to schedule a free initial consultation.