How do I terminate parental rights?

In Arizona, a parent can terminate their parental rights for an adopted child through a process called voluntary relinquishment or surrender. Voluntary relinquishment is when the legal parent voluntarily agrees to give up legal parental rights to the child, and usually occurs before the adoption process begins. The parent must provide a written statement of intent to relinquish their parental rights to the adoption agency or court. A notary or court clerk is typically present to witness the statement. Once the voluntary relinquishment is complete, the court will review the paperwork and make sure that all legal requirements have been met. After all necessary paperwork has been completed and signed, the court will issue an order terminating parental rights. The parents are then no longer legally responsible for the adopted child. The other way to terminate parental rights in Arizona is by involuntary relinquishment. This occurs when a court finds that the parent is no longer fit or able to provide proper care for the child. For example, if the parent is incarcerated, mentally unstable, or otherwise unfit to care for the child, the court can terminate parental rights. In this case, the court finds that it is in the best interest of the child to be adopted by another family. In either case, the termination of parental rights is a serious matter, and is only done in extreme circumstances. All legal requirements must be followed and a court order obtained before any parent can legally terminate their parental rights.

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