Monday, May 11, 2015

Termination of Parental Rights (TPR)

Termination of Parental Rights (TPR)

Parents have many rights when it comes to their children. But, sometimes Courts take away parental rights to protect children that are in very bad situations with their parent.

Parental rights can be terminated in two ways: voluntarily or involuntarily.
  • Voluntary termination means you agree to terminate your rights as a parent.
  • Involuntary termination means you don’t agree with giving up your rights as a parent, but the court decides they should be terminated anyway.

Why would I want to terminate my parental rights?
You might decide to terminate your parental rights because it would be in the best interest of the child or a family member/friend has agreed to take over raising your child.

What are the legal reasons for termination?
There are 9 legal reasons for termination in Minnesota.
  • Abandonment
  • Neglect
  • Failing to support financially
  • Unfit Parent
  • Not fixing the reasons the children were placed in foster care
  • The Children were hurt badly in your care
  • Absent Birth Father
  • Neglected and in foster care
  • Serious criminal conviction

Can I lose my rights if I don’t have a job?
No. You cannot lose your parental rights because you financially can’t provide for your children.  A social worker can work with you to find resources to help you.

What if I go to jail or prison?
If you are in jail or prison, your rights will not get terminated. But, it can be looked at along with other things to show you are not a part of your children’s lives.

Are my rights any different if I am the parent of an “Indian child”?
If your children are members of an American Indian Tribe or eligible for tribal membership, the rules about termination are different because of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).

What if my rights have already been terminated?
You can appeal the court’s decision. An appeal is when you ask to have the judge’s order reviewed by a higher court. Appeals need to be made within 30 days of the date the order was made.

Can I have the rights of the other parent terminated?
Probably not. Courts generally think children should have 2 parents and don’t want to terminate the rights of one parent unless there is a good reason.

If you have any more questions or concerns then please contact the Law Office of Stacey Keenan at 651-252-7238, ext. 102.