What Is the Difference Between Open and Closed Adoption?

 Posted on December 07, 2025 in Family Law

When a family decides to adopt, one of the first choices they must make is how much contact there will be between the biological and adoptive families. In Texas, adoptions are generally either open or closed. Each type affects the child, adoptive parents, and biological parents in different ways.

Choosing the right kind of adoption depends on what feels comfortable for everyone involved. It may seem confusing, but our experienced Bexar County, TX adoption lawyers can explain the legal steps and help you understand which option best suits your needs.

How Does an Open Adoption Work in Texas?

An open adoption allows the biological and adoptive families to stay in contact after the adoption is complete. This can include sharing letters, photos, or phone calls. In some cases, families may even agree to meet in person. The amount of contact depends on what both sides feel is best.

Texas law allows written post-adoption contact agreements that describe how and when the families will communicate. The court may consider open adoption arrangements, but any decision made by Texas courts must be based on what is in the best interest of the child. The judge reviews each agreement carefully before making it part of the adoption order.

Open adoptions can help children learn about their background and reassure biological parents that their child is safe. However, they work best when everyone sets clear boundaries and remains respectful of one another’s roles.

What Happens in a Closed Adoption?

In a closed adoption, there is no contact between the biological and adoptive families after the adoption is finalized. All identifying information about the birth parents is sealed. According to Texas Family Code § 162.006, the state issues a new birth certificate that lists only the adoptive parents. The original birth certificate and court records stay confidential unless a court allows them to be opened later.

Closed adoptions can offer privacy and help families move forward. They can also create a simple and clear family structure for the child. However, the child may have questions later in life about their medical history or biological relatives. In those cases, limited information may be available through official state channels.

Can You Change From a Closed Adoption to an Open One Later?

In some cases, communication can be established after a closed adoption if both sides agree. The court can release identifying information when both the adoptee and the biological parents provide written consent.

When an adoptee becomes an adult, they may also request access to their records. Texas has voluntary reunion registries that allow adopted adults and biological relatives to reconnect. Both parties must register and agree to contact before any identifying information is shared.

How Do You Decide Which Type of Adoption Is Right for Your Family?

Every family has its own needs and comfort levels. Some families value ongoing contact, while others prefer privacy. Before starting the adoption process, it helps to discuss what everyone expects and what feels appropriate for the child. Some considerations include:

• The child’s long-term emotional well-being

• The relationship between biological and adoptive parents

• Each family’s comfort level with sharing information

• The ability to maintain consistent and healthy communication

There is no single right answer. The most important goal is to create a stable, loving environment where the child can thrive.

Contact Our San Antonio, TX Adoption Attorney Today

Whether you are considering an open or closed adoption, professional guidance can help ensure that your rights and your child’s interests are protected. Attorney Brandon Wong leads our firm with a strong dedication to helping families through complex legal matters. He has practiced law since 2008 and has been recognized by Scene In S.A. as one of San Antonio’s best family law attorneys.

Call Brandon Wong & Associates today at 210-201-3832 to schedule a consultation with our team of Bexar County, TX adoption lawyers who want to help.