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Termination of Parental Rights in Utah

Promoting safety and security for children in Salt Lake City

Generally, biological parents must provide financial support and usually have a right to at least periodic visitation with a child. A natural parent maintains standing to petition a court to modify support and custody orders that may be in effect. The only way to fully remove a parent from the life of a minor child is through the legal process of termination of parental rights. The knowledgeable Salt Lake City parental rights attorneys of Hanks & Peterson, P.C. have represented parents and others on both side of this process. We have the practical experience to work with courts and other state agencies to protect our clients’ rights.

Understanding the termination of parental rights

Termination of parental rights legally voids the parent/child relationship and extinguishes most of the rights and duties that usually exist as part of that relationship, including the duty of support and the right to visitation. It also may be necessary to pave the way for a subsequent adoption. A parent can consent to have his or her rights terminated or, under limited circumstances, a court can involuntarily terminate those rights. But in either case, it is a serious and complex process that requires the aid of an experienced family law attorney.

In other cases, termination of Utah parental rights may take place due to abuse, neglect or abandonment by a natural parent. Not only may the other parent make such a petition, but also grandparents, certain other guardians and state agencies. It may seem shocking, but a non-parent may sometimes challenge the rights of a parent to his or her child. This can be a valuable tool for protecting children from abuse and neglect but also creates an unfortunate opportunity for unwarranted interference with the rights of parents. If you are facing a termination lawsuit or considering filing one, you should consult a Salt Lake parental rights attorney.

Trustworthy, tenacious and respected Salt Lake City attorneys

As lawyers in Utah, we understand how difficult a divorce, custody dispute, support battle or legal separation can be and strive to help our clients face the variety of issues involved. Hanks & Peterson, P.C. offers an effective alternative to impersonal and expensive big firms. Call us today at 1-855-888-5608 or contact us online.

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Working with the Hanks and Peterson firm was very satisfying. We were able to get good works accomplished. I was very happy with the final result. - A.G.

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