Termination of parental rights is often the most challenging step in a stepparent adoption.

1. Voluntary Consent

The simplest path occurs when the noncustodial parent signs a consent relinquishing their parental rights. In some cases, parents agree because the adoption ends their future child support obligations.

If the other biological parent is deceased, only the custodial spouse’s consent is required.

2. Court-Ordered Termination (Without Consent)

If the noncustodial parent refuses consent or cannot be located, the court may terminate rights under certain circumstances, including:

• Abandonment

• Failure to support

• Abuse or neglect

• Unfitness

• Failure to maintain a meaningful relationship

• Lack of contact for 12 consecutive months out of the last 14 months

• (in some cases) Failure to pay child support pursuant to ability or pursuant to a court order

• Termination is in the child’s best interest

Contested termination cases require careful preparation, evidence, and courtroom advocacy. We are fully prepared to represent families in contested adoption proceedings.