Termination Of Parental Rights In Florida
Termination of parental rights (TPR) is a profound step that can arise when a parent surrenders their rights or when the state acts to protect a child from harm. Whether you are pursuing termination or defending against it, the outcome permanently alters the parent‑child relationship. Parental rights can be terminated voluntarily or involuntarily when a parent is found unfit or the child’s safety is at risk.
When you need a skilled termination of parental rights lawyer, reach out to the Law Office of Timothy S. Keough, P.A. Founding attorney Timothy S. Keough has over 34 years of experience in Tavares, Florida. He offers a competitive rate for client consultations, whether they are virtual or in person.
Grounds For Involuntary Termination
An involuntary termination of parental rights can happen for various reasons in Florida, including:
- Legal abandonment, defined in Florida as when a parent makes no significant effort to be involved with the child.
- Child abuse, neglect or exploitation
- Substance abuse or chronic drug and alcohol use that impacts parental fitness
- Felony convictions or incarceration
- Intellectual disability or mental illness
- Noncompliance with a case plan in a dependency case
- Failure to protect a child from risk of harm
- Prior termination of parental rights
Parents facing this outcome need to know how they can defend their rights.
Who Can Seek Termination Of Parental Rights In Florida?
Several specific entities may be able to file for a termination of parental rights, including:
- Guardians or caregivers
- One parent who is seeking to terminate the other’s rights
- Prospective adoptive parents, including those in a relative or stepparent adoption
- The Department of Children and Families (DCF)
Since this is a permanent action, state courts treat all TPR cases seriously.
Voluntary Termination Of Parental Rights In Florida
A voluntary termination is typically used to facilitate adoption options, such as:
- Private adoption
- Stepparent adoption
- Relative adoption
In order for someone to gain parental rights when they adopt a child, the biological parents rights must first be terminated.
Specific requirements must be met, and this often involves obtaining the consent of the biological parents, who must have a full understanding of their decision and its consequences. The court will oversee the matter to help ensure that the TPR serves the child’s best interests before giving approval.
Call Our Lawyers For The Support You Need
If you are ready to set up your first consultation with a termination of parental rights attorney in Tavares, Florida, contact the team at Law Office of Timothy S. Keough, P.A., by dialing Call. You can also reach out through our online contact form.