Q&A for How to Terminate a Father's Parental Rights

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Can he ask for a DNA test after he already put his name on the birth certificate?

Community Answer

My fiance and I were told by the hospital where we had our daughter that by signing the birth certificate, the man forfeits his right to ask for or receive a DNA test.

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Question

Would a father's rights be terminated if there was evidence of him selling and doing drugs presented to the court?

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If it had ever been done around the child or if he was drugged up around the child, quite possibly.

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Question

Does a father have parental rights if he isn't on the child's birth certificate?

Community Answer

He would have to acquire a DNA test to get any rights.

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Question

How do I contact my child's father informing him that his parental rights have been terminated?

Community Answer

Do not contact him because that could open a whole new box of worms. The state should have informed him that his rights have been terminated.

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What if he's been in and out of jail and refuses to pay child support?

Community Answer

Speak with you area counsellor. In some countries, his employer will cut off his salary and give you the money, through wage garnishing or similar.

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What can be done about the grandparents' rights of the terminated parent?

Community Answer

By law, once a father's or mother's rights are terminated, that automatically terminates his or her parents' legal rights.

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Question

Can a father terminate his own parental rights?

Community Answer

Yes, a father can terminate his own parental rights if he chooses to do so.

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Question

The father of my child can't be located and has been absent for the child's entire life. Is it possible for my new husband to adopt him?

Community Answer

It may be possible, but you'll need to consult with an experienced family law attorney to find out.

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Question

My child's father is violent towards me and sends harassing texts. He and his wife have now blocked me on social media and won't give me their address. How can I terminate his rights without knowing where he is?

Community Answer

You'd have to get a lawyer involved to locate the non-custodial parent.

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Question

What if a child is afraid of the parent that he hasn't seen since being a baby?

Community Answer

Insist on a consent order with a mediated agreement after involving a child psychologist. Involve third parties to help keep your perspective clear. Lack of involvement weighs in to some extent. The main thing is what's in a child's best interest.

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Question

Can I terminate the parental rights of a father who abused me?

Community Answer

You would have to prove to the court why your child is in better hands with you than with him. Remember, it's not about you. It's not for you, it's for the child.

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Question

If the father gives up his rights and is approved, can he decide later on that he wants to try to put the child up?

Community Answer

No, once you give up your rights there is no do over again. So, it is important to make sure before you do it to know the consequences are final. For more help, speak to your attorney.

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Question

The father of my child is not in my child's life and is not even aware he exists. I don't want him around and he has never wanted a child to begin with. Can I have his rights terminated?

Community Answer

if he's not on the birth certificate, then you don't have to worry unless he starts trying to get his rights by doing a DNA test and court proceedings. Just don't put him on the birth certificate. His current of disinterest will likely continue.

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