No matter in family law is more serious than terminating one’s parental rights. It is sometimes referred to as the “civil death penalty.” A parent’s rights can be terminated under the most extreme of circumstances and doing so requires a high level of proof. If you wish to proceed with such a case, then it is highly suggested that you contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Our Melbourne attorney assists with parental rights termination cases throughout Brevard County. Contact our office today to schedule an initial consultation.
Melbourne lawyer assisting Brevard County residents with cases involving the termination of parental rights
Florida law allows for a parent’s rights to be terminated under extreme circumstances. Grounds for termination include abandonment, when parental conduct threatens the child’s safety, if the parent is going to be incarcerated for a significant portion of the child’s life, if the parent is a career criminal, or if the parent voluntarily gives up their rights. It may be necessary to bring such a case after one has filed for temporary child custody. After rights have been terminated it is also common for the caretaker to file for an adoption. Rights will only be terminated if the reasons for the request are proven by clear and convincing evidence.
The first step in such a matter is to file a Petition for the Termination of Parental Rights. Unlike other family law filings, this document does not require the other side to file a response. The Petition should allege the specific facts for which the Petitioner is requesting the termination (such as why the parent is a danger to the child, drug abuse/addiction, etc.). Several parties need to be served with notice of the case. These include the parents, potentially the grandparents, and potentially other living relatives. Such matters are heard by the Circuit Court at a bench trial (there is no jury). At the conclusion of the case the Judge will give a decision which may be appealed by the parent.
Lindsey Gardner Shneyder is a Melbourne lawyer assisting Brevard County residents with the termination of parental rights. She understands the severity of such matters. Lindsey will immediately file your Petition with the Court and make sure the appropriate parties are served. She will work to make a case to the Judge that termination is appropriate. This will include the introduction of arrest records, police reports, and other documents showing why the case is being brought. We will make your argument to the Judge and argue on your behalf. Our attorney understands this is a serious situation and she will take it seriously. Contact us today.
We also service clients in the Brevard County cities of Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay, Grant, Valkaria, and Rockledge, as well as in the Indian River County areas of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid.
Affordable representation for Melbourne area residents dealing with a parental rights termination
Lindsey understands that nothing may be as stressful as going through a case regarding parental rights termination. In such a situation one does not need the added aggravation of worrying about money. Our attorney is able to handle most cases for a set flat fee and with a modified payment plan. There is no reason for you to break the bank in order to protect the interests of a child. Contact our Melbourne office today.