This is the first post in a series of articles which will discuss the voluntary termination of parental rights in Melbourne, Florida. I feel it is necessary to write on this topic as there are several instances where the parents may agree that the termination of one’s rights is in the best interests of the child. By going through with the termination, a remaining spouse may protect their interests as well as those of the child. There are, however, many misperceptions which parents tend to have in regard to such situations. The goal of my coming series is to provide information which will assist people in better understanding their predicament. It is also my goal to provide information which will assist with the selection of a family law attorney. If you are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a Melbourne child custody lawyer.
I will discuss several topics over my coming articles. Issues which I will analyze include:
- The process of voluntarily terminating one’s rights
- The legal effect of terminating one’s parental rights
- Terminating parental rights for the purpose of adoption
I have chosen to address this topic for multiple reasons. First, understanding the legal process involved in such a proceeding can manage one’s expectations as the matter moves forward. Second, many are under misunderstandings as to the legal effects of such a situation. The parent giving up their rights will no longer be considered a “parent” to the child. Likewise, they will no longer have any obligation to provide financial support for the child. Finally, it is common for parents to agree to terminate one’s rights so that the remaining parent’s new significant other may adopt the child.
If you are considering a voluntary parental termination then it is important that you speak with a family law attorney as soon as possible. Courts in other states have referred to such a termination as the “civil death penalty.” As such, the decision to voluntarily give up one’s rights should not be taken lightly. I am a Melbourne child custody lawyer who devotes her practice to handling domestic relations law. I understand that this is a crucial time in your life and my office will give your case the attention it deserves. Contact us online or by telephone to schedule an initial consultation. My office also services 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.