Understanding Termination of Parental Rights in California 🔹 What It Means Termination of parental rights (TPR) is a legal process where a parent permanently loses custody and decision-making authority over their child. Once terminated, the parent has no legal relationship with the child and cannot make decisions regarding their upbringing. 🔹 Voluntary vs. Involuntary Termination - Voluntary Termination: A parent may voluntarily relinquish rights, often in cases of adoption. - Involuntary Termination: Courts may terminate rights due to neglect, abuse, abandonment, or failure to support the child. Legal Grounds for Termination ✔ Abuse or Neglect – If a parent has subjected the child to physical or emotional harm, courts may rule for termination. ✔ Abandonment – California law defines abandonment as failing to provide support or communication for six months (for one parent) or one year (if both parents are absent). ✔ Substance Abuse Issues – If a parent’s addiction significantly ...
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