[texasmom-to-be]

Does anyone know if it is legal for an adoptive couple to be asked to pay for counseling or other services completely unrelated to their child's adoption?

[BrandyHagz]

In the counseling due to the adoption? Is it a "Post adoption service"?

[texasmom-to-be]

It was 3 mos. after placement and, as I understand it, was related to drug/alcohol and another court case (possibly related to custody of another child)...

[BrandyHagz]

If it isn't for services regarding this adoption (Pre-placement or post-placement service that were agreed to prior to termination) then no...it wouldn't be legal, nor would it be required.

Texas law reads:

Birth Parent Expenses Allowed
Statute: Pen. § 25.08(a)(2)

Legal and medical expenses in connection with birth and pregnancy.
Adoptive counseling services.


Birth Parent Expenses Not Allowed
Statute: Pen. § 25.08(a)(2)
Statutorily prohibited payments.

Allowable Payments for Arranging Adoption
Statute: Fam. § 162.025(a)
A person who is not the parent or a licensed agency may not receive payment for placing a child or serving as an intermediary.

Allowable Payments for Relinquishing Child
Statute: Pen. § 25.08(a)(2)
It is unlawful to offer or accept a thing of value for the adoption of a child.

Allowable Fees Charged by Department/Agency
Statute: Fam. § 162.003
A licensed agency may charge a fee for services, including preadoptive home studies and post-placement reports.

Accounting of Expenses Required by Court
Statute:
The statutes do not specifically require that an accounting be given to the court.