[mlv123]

Hello,

My ex-husband legally signed away his parental rights a few years ago so he would not have to pay child support for our 15 year old daughter. Really a relief for all of us since he was never involved in her life.

Now, my new husband wants to adopt her, and she is thrilled to have him in her life.

Since there is NO ISSUE whatsoever with the birth father, can we do it ourselves? We live in Denton County.

Any suggestions is appreciated.

Thank you.

[Kallen330]

WHO MUST CONSENT: Fam. Code § 162.010
• The managing conservator.
• The parent and spouse of parent.

CONSENT OF ADOPTEE: Fam. Code § 162.010
• A child 12 years or older must consent, unless court finds it in the child's best interest to waive consent.

WHEN PARENTAL CONSENT NOT NEEDED: Fam. Code §§ 161.001; 161.003; 161.005, 161.006, 161.007
• Parent unable to care for child due to mental illness.
• Has voluntarily terminated parental rights.
• After an abortion where the child survives.
• A person is convicted of a crime resulting in the birth of a child.
• Rights have been terminated on the grounds of abandon-ment, nonsupport, endangerment, abuse and neglect.

WHEN CONSENT CAN BE EXECUTED: Fam. Code §161.103, 161.106
• The birth mother may consent no sooner than 48 hours after the birth.
• A man may sign an affidavit disclaiming any interest at any time before or after the birth.

HOW CONSENT MUST BE EXECUTED: Fam. Code § 161.103
• A consent must be signed by the parent, whether or not a minor, witnessed by 2 credible witnesses, and verified by a person authorized to take oaths.

REVOCATION OF CONSENT: Fam. Code § 161.1035
• An affidavit of relinquishment that fails to state that it is irrevocable can be revoked for up to 11 days after signing.
• On the 11th day, consent becomes irrevocable.
§ 162.011
• Any time before an order granting an adoption, consent may be revoked by filing a signed revocation.