Termination of Parental Rights Attorney in Utah

Termination of Parental Rights

Attorney for Termination of Parental Rights in Lehi, Utah

HOYER LAW FIRM
1250 E 200 S STE 2G
Lehi, UT 84043
(801) 901-0797
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Parents have the responsibility to love and take care of their children. But the reality is some parents are unfit to be parental role models to their children. When this happens, authorities can step in to initiate termination of parental rights.

In many cases a parent does not want to sever ties with their children. But the law promotes the children’s best interests. So the court sometimes orders parents to permanently terminate their rights and custody over their children.

Let’s have an in-depth look at the termination of parental rights, and how and why it happens.

When and Why Does the Termination of Parental Rights Happen?

Understand that once the court terminates parental rights, the termination will have a long and lasting effect on both the parents and the children.

Depending on the situation, the termination of parental rights can be permanent and irrevocable. Cases of this sensitive nature should be handled carefully by the most credible legal representatives and social workers.

Another critical point to consider is that the state can revoke a parental right of one parent while maintaining the other parent’s rights. If both parents have their rights revoked, then the state can proceed with finding alternative ways to make sure that the child is cared for and protected. One of these ways is through adoption services.

The termination of parental rights can occur in any of these instances:

1. The court deems a parent unfit or incompetent to be the primary caregiver for the child.
2. A petition where a foster parent requests for parental rights terminated due to the parents’ negligence or abuse can also lead to the eventual termination of parental rights. In this case, a legal representative can file for a petition.
3. A parent can also provide his or her consent for whatever reason to voluntarily give up their parental rights.
4. Parental abuse is a serious ground for termination of parental rights. Parental abuse may mean sexual abuse, neglect, abandonment, and infliction of injury.

How Can One Restore Parental Rights?

Only in the following instances can parental rights be reinstated:

1. For children 12 years old and order, a petitioner can file to have their rights restored, especially if the child’s chances of being adopted before they turn 18 years old are slim to none. Another essential provision to understand is that the petitioner can regain these rights 24 months after the termination of parental rights.
2. Individuals can regain parental rights if they actively show that they are willing to take care of the child again. Remember that you can only petition for these rights if you’ve remedied the past negligence that primarily caused the termination of parental rights.

3. Upon showing the court that you have taken steps to reform your past negligent behavior, they can reinstate your parental rights. The court has to be certain that the child will no longer be in danger under your care.

Termination of Parental Rights in Utah

Because termination of parental rights is a serious matter, consider the services of credible lawyers and social workers to handle the case. Skilled family law attorneys who work in Utah will help you navigate the legal complexities of restoring your parental rights.

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