The Guerra Law Firm

Carrollton TX Family Law Attorneys

Termination of Parental Rights

There are times when the legal bond of parenthood needs to be dissolved.  We can help with this delicate process, whether you are seeking to terminate one parent's rights, or whether you are a parent whose parental rights are threatened with termination. We will work closely with you to determine the  best strategy for achieving your goals. 

In one common situation, one parent may pursue stepparent adoption by a new spouse.  Before the adoption can take place, the absent parent's rights need to be officially terminated.  The Court will normally approve a termination in this circumstance if the absent parent consents to the termination.  If the termination is contested, the Court can still grant the termination after conducting a full hearing to see if the absent parent is dangerous or unfit.  If Child Protective Services (CPS) is involved, they will normally try to work with the family to help ensure a safe environment for the children.  CPS will file a suit to terminate parental rights if they believe a safety plan is unworkable or inappropriate.

A parent's right to have a relationship with his children is protected under the Constitution.   Termination of parental rights is considered an extreme remedy, and a parent must be given due process before his or her rights can be severed.  It is best to have a family law specialist attorney on your side.  Termination cases are complex, and they require an attorney with extensive knowledge of family law, civil trial procedure, and the rules of evidence.