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 Wisconsin, a parent's voluntary relinquishment of parental rights is a legal process that requires court approval. This process involves the parent requesting 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, Wisconsin courts typically do not permit the termination of parental rights unless there is another individual ready and willing to adopt the child. This is to ensure that the child's welfare is not jeopardized by the absence of parental support. The court must also find that the adoption is in the best interest of the child before approving the termination of parental rights. The relevant statutes governing these proceedings are found in Chapter 48 of the Wisconsin Statutes, specifically under the provisions for the 'Termination of Parental Rights'.