This informational guide reviews state laws that detail the specific circumstances that must be present when a court terminates the legal parent-child relationship.
Minnesota Grounds for Involuntary Termination of Parental Rights In Minnesota, there are several grounds for the involuntary termination of parental rights, which involve legally severing the relationship between a parent and their child. Termination of parental rights is a serious matter and can only be granted by a court order after careful consideration of the child's best interests. Here are some of the key grounds for involuntary termination of parental rights in Minnesota: 1. Abandonment: If a parent has willfully abandoned their child for a period of six months or more without demonstrating any intention to resume their parental responsibilities, the court may consider termination of their rights. 2. Neglect or Abuse: When a parent has subjected their child to physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, or has neglected their basic needs, such as failing to provide food, shelter, clothing, or proper medical care, it can be grounds for termination of parental rights. 3. Chronic or Severe Substance Abuse: If a parent demonstrates a chronic or severe substance abuse problem that poses a risk of harm to their child, the court may consider termination. However, efforts towards rehabilitation and treatment may be taken into account. 4. Felony Conviction: If a parent has been convicted of a felony crime, and the conduct underlying the offense is determined to be of such a nature that it is in the best interest of the child to terminate parental rights, the court may grant this request. 5. Failure to Support or Communicate: If a parent has substantially failed, without justifiable cause, to support or maintain regular contact with their child for a period of one year or more, their parental rights may be at risk of termination. 6. Inadequate Care or Reasonable Efforts: In situations where the parent has substantially and continuously or repeatedly refused or neglected to provide necessary care, treatment, or rehabilitation, which has resulted in the child being neglected or endangered, parental rights may be terminated if it is deemed to be in the child's best interest. It is important to note that each case is unique, and the court considers multiple factors before deciding to terminate parental rights. These factors include the child's safety, well-being, and overall best interest. Additionally, Minnesota law requires reasonable efforts to be made to reunite the child with their parent, unless it is determined that such efforts are not required or appropriate given the circumstances. If you find yourself facing possible termination of parental rights, it is crucial to seek legal counsel to understand your rights, options, and potential defenses.
