Legal Overview of Final Hearing

Texas Family Code

Title 5. The Parent-Child Relationship & the Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship

Chapter 263. Review of Placement of Children under Care of Department of Family and Protective Services

Subchapter E. Final Order for Child under Department Care

Please see the Checklist Section for the

Final Order and Grounds for Termination Checklists.

Because of the need for permanency, the Family Code requires resolution of a case within one year, with a possible six-month extension if the court finds there are extraordinary circumstances and the extension is in the best interest of the child. The goal of the final hearing is the entry of a final order that identifies a permanency option or goal for the child and resolves the rights of all involved parties.

A. Case Must Be Dismissed Within One Year

B. Court May Extend Dismissal Date if Extraordinary Circumstances

C. Monitored Return

D. Final Hearing