Severance Of Parental Rights

Few areas of our practice of family law are as emotionally trying as the termination of parental rights. The decision is often made by relatives over a variety of issues that put a child in danger, including:

  • Child abuse and neglect
  • Alcoholism
  • Substance abuse
  • Mental illness

The Difficult But Necessary Process To Terminate Parental Rights

At Terry J. Fong Law Group, our attorneys focus on the legal aspects of severing the rights of parents while our clients deal with personal issues within their families. Our attorneys possess experience representing both sides facing difficult decisions. Regardless of whom they represent, they put the best interests of the children first.

Terminating the rights of a parent can involve Child Protective Services (CPS). The state may step in and determine neglect of the child by the parents. The process can also start when a close family member files a petition to have the child declared a dependent of the state.

For family members bringing a severance proceeding, we take immediate steps to remove the child from the unsuitable home and place him or her in the best possible environment. From there, we work with counselors and child psychologists to testify on behalf of the child.

Parents disputing the severance and termination of their rights must take the initiative in complying with strict guidelines to stop the proceedings. Those guidelines may include attending counseling, securing employment, securing living accommodations, seeking medical help or chemical dependency treatment. In the end, the courts will make the decision that is in the children’s best interests.