Adopting a child is not like adopting a puppy. You can’t change your mind once you get the child home. The adoption process in Austin shouldn’t be taken lightly. You and your spouse need to make sure that you’re truly ready and willing to adopt a child. It is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make.
When you first meet with your adoption lawyer in Austin, TX, they’ll ask you why you want to adopt a child. They’re going to make sure that this is really what you want to do. Some of the things you need to consider are:
- Do you have the kind of lifestyle that will allow you to raise a child?
- Are you financially able to raise a child?
- Do you have a solid relationship with your partner such that you can handle a child coming into your life?
- Do you have other children? If you do, how will they react to you bringing another child into the family?
These are the kinds of questions you need to ask yourself before you start the adoption process. Once you file your adoption petition, there’s no going back. Yes, you can technically and legally stop the process. But you have to remember – your decision affects more than just you and your spouse. It affects the child that you plan to adopt. Their entire life will become a rollercoaster when you choose to adopt them. If you change your mind halfway through, it can disrupt their life and affect them forever.
How Long into the Adoption Process in Austin Can You Still Back Out?
Technically, you can change your mind about the adoption at any point until the final adoption hearing. You may realize at the home study and interview that you aren’t equipped to adopt a child. Or, you may find out that you’re pregnant a few months into the process and don’t think you can handle raising two children at once.
Other times, a couple decided to divorce or split up at some point during the adoption process. Unless you think you can raise the child on your own, it may be best to terminate the adoption petition. Or, the adoption agency may have approved your application because you were going to adopt with your spouse. You may not qualify to adopt on your own.
At any point, if you decide you want to withdraw from the adoption process, you need to let your Austin adoption lawyer know. They will have to file the necessary paperwork to stop the process. They’ll also need to communicate your decision to the adoption agency. The birth mother has a right to know that you’re not going to proceed with the adoption. This way, they can make that child available for adoption to another prospective couple.
What Happens if You Change Your Mind?
If you change your mind about the adoption, you need to let your lawyer know right away. They’ll take the necessary steps to halt the adoption. However, if you do this, know that it can impact your ability to adopt in the future. For example, if you back out, don’t come back a year later and try to adopt again. The record of your prior adoption petition will be available to the adoption agency. It will also be available to the person who does your home study.
However, if you don’t think adoption is the best option for you, then the right thing to do is back out. The worst thing you can do is go through with the adoption and then realize it was a mistake. Not only will that hurt you but it will cause irreparable harm to the child. The best interests of the child are always paramount. Your Austin adoption lawyer understands this. They’ll also remind you of this at every turn. If you don’t think adopting a child is the best decision, then you need to communicate this to your lawyer.
Contact an Experienced Adoption Lawyer in Austin
If you’re sure that you want to proceed with an adoption, it’s time to call an experienced adoption law firm in Austin. They can help you decide how you want to go about with your adoption. They can also help you find an adoption agency to work with.
Call today and schedule your consultation. Sit down with an experienced adoption attorney and let them answer any questions you may have. They can also make sure your adoption process goes smoothly.