Keywords: West Virginia, petition, declare, child, custody, control, abandonment, release of parental rights The West Virginia Petition to Declare a Child Free from Parent's Custody and Control for Abandonment — Release of Parental Rights is a legal document that enables individuals to initiate proceedings in the state of West Virginia to terminate parental rights due to abandonment. This petition serves as a formal request to the court system, asking for intervention in situations where a child has been abandoned by one or both parents, and it seeks to legally sever all ties between the child and the abandoning parent. There are several types of West Virginia Petitions that can be filed to declare a child free from parental custody and control for abandonment, each addressing specific circumstances related to the abandonment: 1. Petition for Termination of Parental Rights due to Abandonment: This type of petition is appropriate when the parent(s) have left the child for an extended period without any contact or support. It seeks to prove that the parent(s) have willfully abandoned their parental responsibilities. 2. Petition for Termination of Parental Rights due to Neglect: This petition is used when the parent(s) have continuously neglected the child's well-being, failing to provide necessities like food, shelter, education, or healthcare. Neglect can support a case for abandonment, as it shows the parent(s) have disregarded their parental duties. 3. Petition for Termination of Parental Rights due to Substance Abuse: In situations where the parent(s) struggle with substance abuse problems and fail to seek appropriate treatment or create a safe environment for the child, this type of petition can be filed. It argues that the child's welfare is at risk due to the parent(s) being unable to fulfill their responsibilities. 4. Petition for Termination of Parental Rights due to Emotional or Physical Abuse: If a child has been subjected to emotional or physical abuse by one or both parents, this petition can be filed to terminate parental rights. It emphasizes the child's need for protection and a safe environment away from the abusive parent(s). Filing a West Virginia Petition to Declare a Child Free from Parent's Custody and Control for Abandonment — Release of Parental Rights requires proper documentation, including evidence of abandonment, neglect, substance abuse, or abuse, depending on the specific circumstances. The petitioner must showcase that terminating parental rights is in the child's best interest and provides a more stable and nurturing environment. It is essential to consult with a family law attorney or the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHH) to ensure accurate completion of the petition and proper legal procedure. The court system will evaluate the case thoroughly, taking into consideration the child's welfare above all else before making a final decision.