Terminating Parental Rights

Custody Termination and Stepparent Adoption

I represent individuals who want to terminate the rights of an abusive or absent parent for the protection of the child or to facilitate adoption by a stepparent. These cases can be hotly contested, and your lawyer must understand the law.

The Law Offices of Doris B. D'Ambrosio has extensive experience in handling termination of parental rights proceedings. My West Hartford family law practice serves clients in Hartford County and throughout northern Connecticut. Call me at (860) 232-5515 for a free consultation.

Terminating Parental Rights

The state of Connecticut has strict guidelines for granting termination, because it is a permanent step and because of concern that the child will end up on government assistance. If the petition is contested, I work with you to convince the court that:

• The child will be provided for financially and emotionally
• The parent had abandoned the child and was not paying support anyway
• The parent is abusive and a danger to the child
• The parent is contesting termination out of spite

The Department of Children and Families will conduct a home study and appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the interests of the child. After terminating parental rights, I can help with formal stepparent adoption.

Objecting to Termination

If you are the father contesting a termination petition, I can challenge charges of abandonment or abuse, and demonstrate your involvement and financial support, the mother's interference with visitation, or reasons why the stepfather should not become the legal parent.

I offer a free initial consultation to determine whether you need an attorney or whether indeed I can help in your situation. Contact my West Hartford office at (860) 232-5515.