Termination of parental rights is one of the most serious actions a Texas court can take. It permanently and irrevocably ends the legal relationship between a parent and a child, including all rights, duties, and responsibilities. Because of the gravity of these cases, Texas courts require strict legal standards and clear evidence before termination may be granted. According to the Texas Family Code, parental rights may be terminated only if the court finds clear and convincing evidence that: One or more statutory grounds for termination exist, and that termination is in the best interest of the child. There are specific grounds for termination which include but are not limited to: abandonment or failure to support a child, endangerment of a child’s physical or emotional well-being, substance abuse affecting parental ability, failure to comply with a court-ordered service plan, and voluntary relinquishment of parental rights. A voluntary relinquishment of parental rights is an affidavit signed by the parent relinquishing his or her parental rights. In most termination cases, the Court will require and appoint an amicus attorney or an attorney ad litem. Even in cases where an affidavit of voluntary relinquishment is signed, the Court can still require an amicus attorney or an attorney ad litem to ensure that the termination is in the child’s best interest. Each case is fact-specific, and meeting the legal burden requires careful preparation and presentation of evidence.

Termination cases may arise in connection with adoption, child custody disputes, or child welfare matters. These cases are often emotionally charged and procedurally complex, requiring experienced legal guidance.

Our firm represents clients on both sides of termination proceedings, providing careful, strategic, and informed representation in accordance with Texas law, by handling termination cases that are part of the adoption process, ensuring compliance with all statutory requirements; strongly defending against termination of the parent-child relationship.

If you are involved in a termination of parental rights case in Texas or believe termination may be necessary or is being sought against you, experienced legal representation is essential.