[Sasharna]

Does anybody here have any experience with permanent termination of parental rights in the US?

The custody arrangement stipulates that XH has no visitation and no contact whatsoever, but I worry this isn't enough to protect us forever.

(Please don't bring up the possibility of his eventual redemption--I need to be vague for my own protection, but the guy has more in common with Ted Bundy than I want to recount.)

PMs are welcome.

 

[cjuniverse]

I'm not exactly sure how it works, but I think you can just send in a petition with the court/legal paperwork? Since he's obviously unfit, I don't see a huge battle ensuing.

There are many other mamis here who have been there and can give you better advice, and I hope they come along soon.

Good luck mami. Wishing you and your little one peace, happiness, and safety.

 

[Captain_Crunch]

It is done as an administrative hearing and you will be required to give notice to XH ("serve him") so he can contest it if he wants, definitely consult an attorney as terminating his parental rights typically terminates any child support obligations he may have.

 

[Theoretica]

Grounds to terminate vary by state. If you want to PM me your state I can look into it for you. I will say that on the surface if the court has ordered no contact that could be a huge help. At the same time, most courts wont terminate unless there is a parent willing to step in and assume rights.

Let me know if you have questions, I'll sub this so I can keep up.

Bellevuemama

 

[Satori]

I've been though it, I've posted about it several times over the years. Do a search for "termination parental rights" for the whole board.

 

[AlwaysByMySide]

Terminating rights does NOT necessarily terminate the responsibility of child support. It may depend on the state. I am going through the process right now.

If you already have a no contact order, you may want to bolster that with a restraining order. Just a thought.

 

[MG01]

As someone else stated, it can be very very difficult to have this done in many states unless there is another parent stepping in to adopt and fulfill that role. Even if you both agree and both want the TPR. Even if he is abusive or unfit, or has been ordered not to have any contact or custody rights. I think this is rather ridiculous myself, and I understand your wanting to have this done, to make permanent/legal what is essentially already the case. I believe that when a father is not a fit parent, doesn't want to parent, and is not acting in any capacity as a parent, the court should grant the TPR, but unfortunately that is often not how it works. Again, it varies by state. I wish you luck and my thoughts are with you- without knowing much about your situation, it is clear that you are trying to protect yourself and your child, and I think it is sad if the court won't facilitate that, but it does sound like there are clear protections in place- please take advantage of whatever protections are available in your state, and take care!!