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 West Virginia, 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 forfeiting rights to custody, visitation, and the obligation to provide financial support. However, West Virginia courts typically do not permit the termination of parental rights unless there is another individual ready and willing to adopt the child. The prospective adoptive parent must be deemed qualified by the court. Furthermore, the court must find that the adoption serves the best interests of the child before approving the termination of parental rights. This requirement ensures that the child's welfare is the paramount concern in the decision to terminate parental rights.