The rights of a parent may be terminated for several reasons, including not paying child support, abuse, neglect, willful abandonment, the inability to provide care, or others. Either parent may initiate this action, including individuals such as a court-appointed guardian, an adoptive petitioner of the child, or anyone who has lived with the child continuously for two or more years.

Typically, if grounds are established for termination, the court must decide if the termination is in the best interests of the child. During this process, the court considers a range of aspects including the child’s age, the relationship between the child and the petitioner, and the long-term benefits to the child.

Effects of Termination

All orders that terminate parental rights permanently severs the relationship between the parent and child, including their rights and obligations to one another. However, the child’s right to any inheritance from the severed parent remains until the child is adopted.