2025 Session Last amended: 1999 session

§ 257.74 — Adoption; Termination Proceedings

Plain-Language Summary

This section requires that fathers be notified before a child is adopted or before parental rights are terminated, protecting a father's rights by requiring notice of adoption or termination proceedings.

Practical Notes
When this applies: When an adoption or termination of parental rights proceeding is filed. Who this affects: Fathers, including alleged and presumed fathers. Key points: A father must receive notice. If the father’s identity is unknown, the court must make reasonable efforts to find him. A father who fails to respond to proper notice may lose his parental rights.