Terminating parental rights is a serious legal matter that should only be pursued with the help of an experienced attorney. In Texas, parental rights can only be terminated by court order. A signed voluntary relinquishment or waiver of interest, or even a failure to file with the paternity registry, is not enough to forever end parental rights. A judge must sign a court order to end those rights forever.
There are a number of grounds for terminating parental rights in Texas, including:
If you are considering terminating the parental rights of a parent, it is important to understand the legal process involved. You should also be aware of the potential consequences of terminating parental rights, including:
If you are facing a termination of parental rights case, it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can represent you in court.
The Process of Termination Parental Rights in Texas
The process of terminating parental rights in Texas begins with the filing of a petition with the court. The petition must be filed by the parent who is seeking to terminate the other parent’s parental rights. The petition must state the grounds for termination and the relief that is being sought.
Once the petition is filed, the other parent will be served with notice of the petition. The other parent will then have the opportunity to file an answer to the petition. If the other parent does not file an answer, the court may enter a default judgment in favor of the parent who filed the petition.
If the other parent does file an answer, the case will proceed to trial. At trial, the court will hear evidence from both parties and will make a decision on whether to terminate the other parent’s parental rights.
The Consequences of Termination Parental Rights
The consequences of terminating parental rights are significant. Once parental rights are terminated, the parent will no longer have any legal rights to the child. The parent will no longer be able to visit the child or contact the child. The parent will also no longer be responsible for the child’s financial support.
In some cases, terminating parental rights may be the best option for a child. However, it is important to understand the consequences of termination before making a decision. If you are facing a termination of parental rights case, it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can represent you in court.
Contact Tidwell Law Firm for experienced Family Law Attorneys ready to help you.
