Orange County Termination Of Parental Rights Representing Families In California

Terminating the rights of a parent is a complex and serious decision that needs to be carefully thought out. This essentially means that the obligations and rights of the birth parent are not a factor and they are no longer the legal parent of the child

If you are considering this decision, it is important to work with a skilled attorney that can guide you through the process and make sure that the best interests of you and your family are adhered to.

At Sarieh Law Offices, we understand the complex nature of these cases and have helped countless clients in the past navigate the complicated legal system. We have received many questions about this topic from former clients. 

Here are some of the most common questions we have been asked:

• What are the reasons parental rights are terminated?
• How to begin the termination of parental rights process
• Can parental rights be reinstated?

What Are The Reasons Parental Rights Are Terminated?

In the state of California, parents can voluntarily terminate their parental rights in situations such as adoptions. However, the courts also have the ability to terminate parental rights in the following situations:

• The father will not claim paternity
• Child abuse or neglect
• Substance abuse
• There is no contact with the child
• Other children in the household are being abused or neglected
• Mental illness in the parents
• Sexual abuse
• A felony conviction of a violent crime
• The child is in the foster care system and no alternatives are available to them

How To Begin The Termination Of Parental Rights Process

If terminating parental rights is being contested, you must file a petition with the court. The parent that is contesting will be allowed to defend their ability to parent and support their child.

If the parent cannot be found is unknown, you will also be required to file a petition to the court. This is common in adoption proceedings.

If a parent is willing to voluntarily terminate their parental rights, the process will be faster and much less complex. This type of situation typically occurs with stepparent adoptions and all that is needed is just the filing of some paperwork. An experienced attorney will be able to help you through the entire process and ensure that you have followed the proper guidelines and filled out all of the necessary paperwork. 

Can Parental Rights Be Reinstated?

In California, if parental rights have been terminated, they typically cannot be reinstated. The exception to this is if a child is waiting to be placed under foster care, their parent may be able to file for reinstatement of their parental rights. 

Contact A Termination Of Parental Rights Law Firm In Orange County, Ca To Learn More

At Sarieh Law Offices, our expert family law attorneys have the knowledge and experience needed to handle cases of this nature. We understand that this decision-making process can be quite difficult, and we are here to help you through the entire legal process.
To learn more about your options and schedule a confidential case evaluation, contact us at 714-694-7723.