Terminations of Parental Rights in Pennsylvania
Removing Barriers in Contested Adoptions
If you are seeking to adopt a stepchild or grandchild, or need to get an unfit parent out of your child's life, Avallone Law Associates can help.
The firm has extensive experience in the often contentious proceedings undertaken to terminate a parent's rights. Our founding attorney, Lawrence Avallone, has practiced law in Pennsylvania for more than 25 years and can provide you with the strong legal advocacy and knowledgeable counsel you need on parental rights, adoption and child custody matters.
Free consultations: In the Philadelphia area, call 215-253-3855; in other parts of Pennsylvania, dial 1-877-223-0579 toll free.
Private Termination of Parental Rights
A custodial parent can file a private termination petition after six months of abandonment of the child. The absent or unfit parent is notified and a hearing date set. If that parent consents or fails to show up at the hearing, a Petition to Confirm Consent or Petition to Terminate Rights is entered and an adoption hearing can be immediately conducted. This process eliminates the possibility of a parent resurfacing years later to assert his or her parental rights.
If the parent contests the termination, a hearing is set and litigation commences. The court will investigate and consider many factors:
- Did the parent have any contact or provide any support?
- Was he or she thwarted in trying to have contact?
- What would be the psychological impact on the child?
- Is there evidence of drug use, or physical or sexual abuse?
Our lawyers work one-on-one to prepare you for the hearing and provide any documentation that will convince the court to rule in your favor. If the petition is granted, an adoption hearing is then conducted. We can also handle name change petitions at that time.
Dependent Child Litigation
In cases of severe abuse or neglect, state authorities may become involved. If you are currently under investigation or have received official notice of a finding of abuse or neglect — your children could be removed from the home (at least temporarily) or the state could seek to terminate your parental rights altogether. Our experience in dependent child litigation and in dealing with the Department of Human Services (DHS) are invaluable assets to have working for you at this critical time.
More Than 25 Years of Making the Law Work for Families
To schedule a no-cost consultation and learn more about termination of parental rights or adoption issues — contact us online, or call us at 215-253-3855 or 1-877-223-0579 (toll free).
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