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[ADOPTION] Does anyone have any experience adopting?

Discussion in 'BBS Hangout' started by Falcons Talon, Apr 26, 2007.

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  1. Falcons Talon

    Falcons Talon Member

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    I am going to legally adopt my Tara's 3 boys, but after researching the cost for a lawyer to do this ($2000 and up + Filing fees of $750 up), I think I am going to hit the legal library and look through the Texas Family Practice Manual and see if I can do this myself.

    I know I will need a petition to adopt (no termination since biological father is deceased), petition to adopt adult, (eldest is over 18), I will need a form to appoint for a social study, the decree of adoption, and the letter to DPS for a criminal background check.

    Does anyone have any experience with this that can offer guidance. My Prepaid Legal has gotten me started, and I will consult with them, but if there are any tips or suggestions, I would appreciate the input.
     
    #1 Falcons Talon, Apr 26, 2007
  2. MadMax

    MadMax Member

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    one of my law partners has done a bit of this. you're right...it's expensive because it's a lot of work, as i understand it.
     
    #2 MadMax, Apr 26, 2007
  3. Falcons Talon

    Falcons Talon Member

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    The thing is, there will be no need to terminate the father's rights since he is deceased. Additionally, there is no need to serve or publish the request since father is deceased. I may request to waive the ad litem since Tara is all for the adoption, and I have been father to the boys since 2001.

    The attorney I contacted stated that adoption is one of the most noble things a stepdad can do, yet is one of the most expensive things as well. Go figure.
     
    #3 Falcons Talon, Apr 26, 2007
  4. RocketMan Tex

    RocketMan Tex Member

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    I agree, but I also believe that it should only be done if the child in question has absolutely no relationship to the parent you are stepping in for.

    In your situation, where the natural father is deceased, it's a good and noble thing. If the natural father lived in another country, or if he was a deadbeat dad, it woud be a good and noble thing to do.

    I am currently in a situation where the woman I am dating has a 7 year old son. She shares custody with her ex-husband who lives here in town. The child is with her Sunday afternoon-Thursday afternoon and with his father Thursday night through Sunday noon. Since her ex-husband is very much involved as a parent, and seems to be the kind of guy who always will be, I doubt I would adopt her son if she and I ever got married.
     
    #4 RocketMan Tex, Apr 26, 2007
  5. SwoLy-D

    SwoLy-D Member

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    If you're looking at the cost of it vs. the value of it, don't do it. You're a good man, Mr. Talon. You're doing the right thing. :)

    Make some more babies with her, too.
     
    #5 SwoLy-D, Apr 26, 2007
  6. Falcons Talon

    Falcons Talon Member

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    It's not a cost vs value thing. It's an I don't have that kind of money, but am determined to do this thing. :D

    We've spent many hours talking about our own babies, but are afraid it would take away from the boys we already have.
     
    #6 Falcons Talon, Apr 26, 2007
  7. A-Train

    A-Train Member

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    There's your first mistake right there. Instead of adopting American kids, try going after some kids from Africa.

    Sincerely,

    [​IMG]
     
    #7 A-Train, Apr 26, 2007
  8. Falcons Talon

    Falcons Talon Member

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    Meh...Tara has her lips and cheekbones...and I have Tara. Win win for me!!!


    Just got back from the Law Library. Downloaded the forms I think I need.

    Now to fill them out!
     
    #8 Falcons Talon, Apr 26, 2007
  9. Falcons Talon

    Falcons Talon Member

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    I think I'm just about ready to file. I still need the notary to stamp some afadavits, but I think I'm just about ready to push through with this.
     
    #9 Falcons Talon, Apr 30, 2007
  10. Refman

    Refman Member

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    Email me through the board and then call me at my office. My law partner does that kind of work and does it less expensively than what you had talked about earlier.
     
    #10 Refman, Apr 30, 2007
  11. Falcons Talon

    Falcons Talon Member

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    Very cool. I'll try to get ahold of you today or tomorrow.
     
    #11 Falcons Talon, Apr 30, 2007
  12. Falcons Talon

    Falcons Talon Member

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    I sent you an email through the BBS.

    Let me know if you received it.

    Thanks again.
     
    #12 Falcons Talon, Apr 30, 2007
  13. Bandwagoner

    Bandwagoner Member

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    I tried to adopt a 17 year old Korean girl once.
     
    #13 Bandwagoner, Apr 30, 2007
  14. KingCheetah

    KingCheetah Atomic Playboy
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    #14 KingCheetah, Apr 30, 2007
  15. Falcons Talon

    Falcons Talon Member

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    Thanks KC. I'll look into that.
     
    #15 Falcons Talon, May 1, 2007
  16. Falcons Talon

    Falcons Talon Member

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    Just an update:

    I filed the petition today w/ all notarized affadavits. Turns out the judge it landed with is friends with a very good friend of mine. I've also sent out for my background check. Tara and I are very anxious and excited by all this!
     
    #16 Falcons Talon, May 4, 2007
  17. weslinder

    weslinder Member

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    Good for you man. I was adopted as a baby, so I know nothing about the experience. My uncle did adopt his stepson, at 16 when there wasn't much "benefit" to it, and it really helped their bond. They are really close, now.
     
    #17 weslinder, May 4, 2007
  18. Falcons Talon

    Falcons Talon Member

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    Just an update...a court date of June 29th is set. The social study went very well, and we don't foresee any holdups.

    We were a little shocked at the date...it is exactly 6 years from the date that the boys lost their father. We see God's hand at work in this, and we have faith that our prayers are going to be answered.
     
    #18 Falcons Talon, Jun 21, 2007
  19. Falcons Talon

    Falcons Talon Member

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    Tomorrow is the court date. I usually don't ask God for anything more than the ability to make good decisions and to protect my family, but I've been asking Him for his blessing on the courts decision. Please say a prayer for my family that all goes well.
     
    #19 Falcons Talon, Jun 28, 2007
  20. bnb

    bnb Member

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    Congrats on the new kiddies. Triplets no less! Just be thankful you're not changing nappies.

    Your court thingie should be a formality as it's not being contested. All the same -- i wish you the best.

    Don't get a speeding ticket on your way home.
     
    #20 bnb, Jun 28, 2007
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