Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

Childs Behavior and Parental Rights

If a 17 yr old child doesn't want to see their non custodial parent anymore and has no contact with them, can that parent sign over their parental rights? Would they still be held responsible for the childs actions and be required to continue to pay child support? If child's behavior lands them in trouble with the law would the parent be held responsible? How would a parent go about signing over their parental rights?


Asked on 9/23/08, 5:09 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
TC Langford Langford Law Office

Re: Childs Behavior and Parental Rights

Realistically, courts do not allow a parent to terminate their parental rights lightly. As long as the child is still a minor, the courts take the position that the parent needs to be at least financially responsible for the child.

There are unusual cases where no adoptive parent/stepparent is waiting in the wings, but the court allows termination -- but it is rare.

Without a court-ordered termination, you remain liable for the actions of the child, and child support.

Read more
Answered on 9/25/08, 2:10 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Texas