This informational guide reviews state laws that detail the specific circumstances that must be present when a court terminates the legal parent-child relationship.
Maine has specific grounds for the involuntary termination of parental rights, which are circumstances under which a parent's legal rights and responsibilities for their child are permanently severed by the court. These grounds, determined by the Maine Revised Statutes Title 22, section 4055, aim to protect the well-being and safety of the child. Here are some different types of grounds for involuntary termination of parental rights in Maine: 1. Abandonment: Involuntary termination may occur if a parent has willfully deserted or abandoned the child for a period of at least six months without expressing any intention to resume parental responsibilities. 2. Severe or Repeated Abuse or Neglect: Parents who have severely abused or neglected their child, resulting in the child's well-being or safety being at risk, may face involuntary termination of their parental rights. 3. Incapacity to Parent: If a parent demonstrates an ongoing and severe incapacity, either mentally, emotionally, or physically, which affects their ability to adequately care for the child, their parental rights may be terminated. 4. Criminal Behavior: Involuntary termination can occur if a parent has been convicted of a serious crime, such as murder, manslaughter, sexual assault, or other offenses that indicate a significant threat to the child's safety or well-being. 5. Failure to Support: Parents who have willfully failed to provide financial support for their child for a period of at least six months, despite having the means to do so, may be subject to involuntary termination of their parental rights. 6. Abusive Relationship: In cases where the parent knowingly allows the child to be exposed to a dangerous or abusive living situation, such as domestic violence, their parental rights may be terminated to ensure the child's safety. It is important to note that these grounds are not exhaustive, as each case is unique and the court considers the best interests of the child as the primary factor in determining involuntary termination of parental rights. The court evaluates evidence and testimonies from various parties involved, including social service agencies, legal representatives, and mental health professionals, to make a final decision in the child's best interest.
