Filing Termination of Parental Rights in Connecticut? There must be legally sufficient grounds for a judge to terminate parental rights in Connecticut.
In my opinion, here are the strongest:
1. Abandonment. This occurs when a parent has failed to maintain a reasonable degree of interest, concern or responsibility as to the welfare of their child. Think of a parent being absent for an extended period of time.
2. Failure to rehabilitate. This refers to whether or not the parent has successfully addressed certain issues (i.e. substance abuse, mental health) so that they are able to parent and meet the child’s needs. Consider if they have turned their life around.
3. No ongoing parent-child relationship. This looks at whether a parent-child relationship currently exists and, if not, whether it would be detrimental to the child’s best interests to permit additional time for the development of such a relationship. Think about how the child views the parent or if they have any feelings about the parent at all.
If the judge finds one of the above ground there must still be a separate finding that a termination of parental rights is in the child’s best interest.
Termination of parental rights is the most serious action a Juvenile Court or Probate Court can take against a parent. Therefore, the standard of proof is higher than in typical custody and visitation case. The judge must find that there is “clear and convincing” evidence to sever parental ties.
Please contact me to discuss filing Termination of Parental Rights in Connecticut.