A parent’s voluntary relinquishment of parental rights is the legal process in which the parent of a minor child asks the court to terminate the parent-child relationship. Termination of the parent-child relationship terminates the parent’s right to visitation or custody of the child, and terminates the parent’s obligation to support the child. But most courts will not allow a parent to terminate parental rights and obligations unless there is a qualified person who is willing to adopt the child, and the court determines the adoption is in the best interest of the child.

In New York, a parent's voluntary relinquishment of parental rights is a serious legal action that is only granted under specific circumstances. The process involves a parent asking the court to legally terminate their relationship with their child, which includes giving up rights to custody, visitation, and the responsibility to support the child financially. However, New York courts typically require that there be someone else, such as a stepparent or another family member, ready and willing to adopt the child before they will terminate parental rights. This is because the court's primary concern is the best interest of the child, and ensuring that the child will continue to have the financial and emotional support necessary for their well-being. The process is formal and requires a petition to the court, and the court will consider factors such as the child's need for stability and the parent's reason for relinquishment. The decision to terminate parental rights is not taken lightly and is considered irreversible once completed.