Board Certified® Fort Worth & Southlake

Fort Worth Adoption Lawyers

100+ years of combined experience including four Board Certified attorneys.

  • Complex, high-asset divorce and property division
  • Business owner divorce and valuation disputes
  • Contested custody and conservatorship
  • Trial-ready representation in Tarrant County courts
(817) 900-8330

Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
4.8
verified by Trustindex
Trustindex verifies that the company has a review score above 4.5, based on reviews collected on Google over the past 12 months, qualifying it to receive the Top Rated Certificate.

Request a Consultation

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Name*
I'm interested in:*

Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Or call us directly: 817.900.8330

Understanding Adoption in Texas

Adoption in Texas creates a permanent legal relationship between a parent and child. Once finalized, adoptive parents have the same rights and responsibilities as biological parents. Adoption provides security and stability for children while protecting the legal rights of parents.

It is different from guardianship or foster care. Adoption permanently ends the rights of the biological parents, while guardianship and foster care are temporary arrangements. Having an experienced adoption lawyer ensures every step is handled according to Texas law and that your family’s future is protected.

At a Glance

At Mims Ballew Hollingsworth, we guide families across Fort Worth and Tarrant County through the adoption process with more than 100 years of combined family law experience. Four of our attorneys are Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

We handle all types of adoption, including stepparent, relative, private, agency, and adult adoptions, with a focus on ensuring every legal requirement is met—from termination of parental rights to final court approval. Our team provides clear guidance at every stage to help families move forward with confidence.

Recognized by Martindale-Hubbell (AV Preeminent), Super Lawyers, and Fort Worth Magazine’s Top Attorneys, we take a compassionate, detail-driven approach to building secure, lasting family relationships. 

Please call: 817-900-8330.

On this page
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

    Types of Adoption We Handle

    Each family’s path to adoption is unique. At Mims Ballew Hollingsworth, we guide clients through every type of adoption with skill and compassion.

    Stepparent Adoption

    Stepparent adoption allows a stepparent to gain full legal rights to their spouse’s child. This process often requires termination of the other biological parent’s rights. Our attorneys guide families through this sensitive process and ensure it is completed correctly.

    Relative Adoption

    When grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings adopt a child, the process can help maintain family bonds. Relative adoption keeps children connected to their roots and provides emotional stability. We handle the legal steps to make these family placements official.

    Private or Independent Adoption

    Private adoptions involve a direct arrangement between birth parents and adoptive parents. These cases require legal documentation and strict compliance with Texas adoption laws. We often recommend that the parties seek counseling as well. Our attorneys ensure that each party’s rights are respected throughout the process.

    Domestic Agency Adoption

    Agency adoptions involve a licensed organization that matches children with adoptive families. The agency manages the placement, while our attorneys ensure all legal requirements are met. We help families understand their responsibilities and navigate complex agency rules.

    Adult Adoption

    Adult adoption occurs when one adult adopts another, often to officially recognize and formalize a parent-child bond. It can also have inheritance or caregiving implications. Our team handles these cases with care and discretion.

    Reviews

    We’re proud of the praise we receive from clients who appreciate our integrity, responsiveness, and thorough preparation.

    ExcellentGoogle star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 54.869 reviews
    4.8Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
    Excellent69 reviews
    Posted on Google Google
    Ryan Carreker profile picture
    Ryan Carreker
    52 days ago
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Andrew did a terrific job handing my case with a very positive outcome. Excellent representation from start to finish.
    Posted on Google Google
    Megan Thomas profile picture
    Megan Thomas
    53 days ago
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely Amazing Attorney! This is for Haley Shaw!!! I cannot say enough good things about my experience with this attorney. From the very beginning, they were professional, knowledgeable, compassionate, and truly listened to my concerns. They took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I understood my options every step of the way. What stood out to me most was how genuinely they cared about helping me. I never felt like just another case or another number. They were responsive, honest, and worked incredibly hard to get the best possible outcome. Going through a legal situation can be extremely stressful, but having an attorney who is trustworthy, understanding, and truly fights for their clients makes all the difference. I am extremely grateful for everything they did for me and would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking for an attorney. If you’re looking for someone who knows their stuff and genuinely cares about their clients, I highly recommend them! 10/10! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
    Posted on Google Google
    Tristan Southers profile picture
    Tristan Southers
    57 days ago
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    There's not a firm I would ever trust more than this one not I hope to ever need a lawyer again but if I do I will definitely be coming back here and asking for Haley. Not only is she very caring and sympathetic to whatever the cause is and you can tell she cares, but makes sure you understand everything and walks you through the whole thing so your prepared. She got me everything I asked for with my son and there's not another lawyer I would use besides her! Thank you for everything!
    Posted on Google Google
    Andressa Hinton profile picture
    Andressa Hinton
    73 days ago
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    When I began my divorce and after working with several attorneys along the way, I quickly realized this was anything but a typical case. It involved a high-net-worth marital estate, a family business, complex financial issues, and legal matters that demanded not only exceptional expertise in family law, but also a strong understanding of business, corporate structures, valuation, strategy, patience, and unwavering dedication. Unfortunately, not every attorney I consulted with or even hired possessed that combination of knowledge or the ability to confidently navigate a case of this complexity. Then I found MBH Law Firm, and the rest is history. From day one, Kelly Hollingsworth and Allison Luttrell exceeded every expectation I had. They immediately understood the complexities of my case and approached it with confidence, clarity, and a well-defined strategy tailored specifically to my circumstances. Their ability to see the bigger picture while never losing sight of the smallest details is what truly set them apart. Kelly is the type of attorney you want standing beside you when everything that matters is on the line. He is incredibly knowledgeable, strategic, honest, and always several steps ahead. He has an exceptional ability to break down complex legal and financial issues into terms that are easy to understand while developing a thoughtful strategy focused on achieving the best possible outcome. He doesn't need to be the loudest person in the room to command respect. He is deliberate, calculated, and exceptionally prepared. Throughout one of the most challenging times of my life, I never questioned whether he was fighting for my best interests. Allison has been equally outstanding. Her responsiveness, professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine compassion never went unnoticed. She consistently kept me informed, ensured every deadline was met, and handled every aspect of my case with precision and care. No question was ever too small, and no concern was ever dismissed. Together, Kelly and Allison made an exceptional team. What impressed me most was their ability to manage an emotionally difficult divorce while simultaneously navigating complicated business valuation issues, corporate ownership concerns, financial records, negotiations, and the countless legal complexities that accompany a high-asset case. They remained extremely focused, prepared, and strategic every step of the way. They took the time to understand my goals, listened carefully, and provided honest guidance, even when the answers weren't always easy to hear. That level of transparency and trust is invaluable. If you are facing a divorce involving significant assets, business interests, or complex financial matters, I cannot recommend Kelly Hollingsworth, Allison Luttrell, and MBH Law Firm highly enough. Their legal knowledge, business acumen, work ethic, communication, and unwavering dedication are truly second to none. I am incredibly grateful for everything they have done on my behalf. They didn't simply represent me…they advocated for me, protected my interests, and gave me confidence during one of the most difficult chapters of my life. Five stars simply isn’t enough as they have earned my highest respect, complete trust, and strongest possible recommendation.
    Posted on Google Google
    Patrick Misencik profile picture
    Patrick Misencik
    96 days ago
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Andrew McAlester was my lawyer for my divorce. He was very honest with me while still listening and understanding my unique situation and advocating for my needs. I highly recommend him for anyone who is going through a divorce.
    Posted on Google Google
    Rebekah Thomas profile picture
    Rebekah Thomas
    170 days ago
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Alexis Gerbhardt was referred to me & I’m so glad she was! She was educational & supportive and made a hard situation easier. I highly recommend her!
    Posted on Google Google
    Hal Needham profile picture
    Hal Needham
    175 days ago
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Andrew McAlester represented me in a family law case. He is extremely competent and understands the law very well. At the same time, he was compassionate and caring, as well as an excellent communicator. I would highly recommend Andrew for your legal needs.
    Posted on Google Google
    Diana Dyer profile picture
    Diana Dyer
    205 days ago
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    I cannot recommend Constance Mims highly enough. After my first lawyer left my case in a complete mess, finding her was truly a blessing. From the very beginning, she took the time to dig deep and uncover every piece of supporting evidence needed to strengthen my case. Her attention to detail and commitment to truth gave me confidence during a very difficult time. What sets her apart is her clear, honest communication—you always know exactly what to expect. She keeps everything transparent and uses a very user-friendly online system that makes staying informed and sharing documents simple and stress-free. She is warm, approachable, and never pushy, which made working with her feel comfortable and supportive. At the same time, she is incredibly sharp and knowledgeable—she knows the law inside and out and handles everything with intelligence and precision. She is also very mindful of your time and money, staying efficient and focused without ever cutting corners. Most importantly, she genuinely cares. She advocates strongly for the children involved and leads with integrity and compassion. It’s rare to find someone who balances professionalism, strength, and kindness so well. I truly believe she is a woman of faith, and it shows in the way she serves her clients. If you’re looking for someone who will fight for you, guide you with honesty, and bring clarity to a complicated situation, she is the one you want on your side.
    Posted on Google Google
    Austin Hanson profile picture
    Austin Hanson
    223 days ago
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Alexis helped me make smart and informed decisions. The divorce process is not easy emotionally and they take care of the hard work.
    Posted on Google Google
    Tim Stapula profile picture
    Tim Stapula
    252 days ago
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    I cannot emphasize enough how top-notch this firm is. I worked exclusively with Andrew McAlester as my lead attorney. His knowledge of the law cannot be questioned. His no-nonsense approach telling me straight-up what I can expect and what the outcome would be because the laws are the laws. That held true. He is very efficient as well, helping to keep the overall cost down. He guided me through one of the worst periods of my life not only as my lawyer, but also provided sympathetic friend-like support as I was losing my wife and best friend. This divorce was the worst thing I’ve ever gone through, and he handled my situation perfectly. When I needed tough love I got it. When I needed a brother to just talk to, I got it. When I needed ANYTHING from him, I got it. Andrew is simply a rock-star.

    The Critical Step: Termination of Parental Rights

    Termination of parental rights is a central part of every adoption in Texas. It can occur voluntarily, when a parent agrees to end their rights, or involuntarily, when the court determines it is in the child’s best interest. Both situations require careful handling and court approval. Our attorneys ensure this critical step complies with the Texas Family Code and protects your adoption from future challenges.

    This step must be completed before moving forward with the legal adoption process. Once parental rights are terminated, adoptive parents can proceed with confidence that the adoption will create a permanent and secure legal bond.

    adoption

    The Adoption Process in Texas

    The adoption process can feel overwhelming, but our firm makes it clear and manageable. We walk with you from the first filing to the final hearing, ensuring each requirement is met along the way.

    Step 1 – Filing the Petition

    The process begins by filing a petition for adoption in the appropriate court. This establishes your legal intent to adopt.

    Step 2 – Home Study and Background Checks

    An adoption home study assesses the adoptive family’s home environment and background. Our firm helps you prepare for this important evaluation.

    Step 3 – Termination of Parental Rights

    Before an adoption can be finalized, the rights of the biological parents must be terminated. We handle this legal process to avoid future disputes.

    Step 4 – Final Adoption Hearing

    A judge reviews the case and, if approved, issues the final adoption order. Our attorneys represent you in court and ensure all requirements are complete.

    Why You Need an Adoption Lawyer

    Adoption laws in Texas are complex. Without legal guidance, families risk delays or even denial. An adoption lawyer protects your rights, ensures every requirement is met, and helps prevent contested adoption issues. From filing paperwork to representing you in court, legal support is essential for a smooth and secure process.

    Benefits of Hiring MBH for Your Adoption Case

    At Mims Ballew Hollingsworth, we tailor every legal strategy to fit your needs. Our team understands how emotional and personal this journey can be. We have extensive experience handling private, agency, and contested adoptions across Tarrant County. Our knowledge of local judges and procedures helps move your case forward efficiently and effectively.

    Our firm’s board-certified family law attorneys bring over 100 years of combined experience to each case. We have earned the trust of Fort Worth families through our preparation, professionalism, and results. We also serve clients across Southlake and the surrounding communities. If you are ready to begin the adoption process, we are ready to guide you every step of the way.

    Schedule a confidential consultation today to learn more about our services.

    FAQ about Adoptions & Adoption Attorneys in Texas

    Scroll to Top