Can a parent relinquish parental rights?

A parent generally cannot give up their parental responsibility, as this is considered a fundamental legal obligation. However, there are some limited circumstances where parental rights and responsibility can be terminated or transferred.

A mother can voluntarily give up parental responsibility if they choose to place their child for adoption. When a child is legally adopted, both biological parents will lose parental responsibility.

A court can terminate parental responsibility in exceptional circumstances, such as long-term abuse or neglect of the child, withholding necessary medical treatment or if a parent poses a serious risk to a child’s safety and welfare.