Termination of Parental Rights / Step Parent Adoptions

The termination of parental rights is one of the most sensitive and serious issues in all of family law. That’s why it is absolutely critical to secure representation from a firm that understands how to handle these cases delicately and with the discretion they deserve.

California Child Abandonment

At the Law Offices of Patricia A. Hendrickson & Associates, our attorneys are highly experienced with handling child abandonment cases and providing termination of parental rights, step-parent adoptions, minor’s counsel, and guardianship action services. As a result, we have the background and skill set needed to expertly guide our clients through this delicate process.

In California, for example, the custodial parent can move to terminate the parental rights of a non-custodial parent if he/she has not provided either financial support or had significant contact with the child for at least a full year. However, courts take the termination of a parent’s rights very seriously and will rarely do so unless a step-parent adoption is also pending. There are many exceptions to the “rule” however, so contact us for a personal evaluation of your situation.

Orange County Step-Parent Adoptions

As a natural extension of handling termination of parental rights cases, we also help mothers, fathers, and registered domestic partners successfully complete the step-parent adoption process. Being that this is often a necessary step in moving to terminate a non-custodial parent’s rights, we will advise you accordingly – before you officially seek termination – to put you in the best possible position for success.