Child Custody

questions & answers

Question: How do I file for abandonment on my daughters father when he is no where to be found?

Answer: In the state of Arizona, “abandonment” is defined by ARS 8-531 as “the failure of a parent to provide reasonable support and to maintain regular contact with the child, including providing normal supervision. Abandonment includes a judicial finding that a parent has made only minimal efforts to support and communicate with the child. Failure to maintain a normal parental relationship with the child without just cause for a period of six months constitutes prima facie evidence of abandonment.”  A petition for termination of parental rights based on abandonment should be filed with the juvenile court in your county (ARS 8-532).  You may use this link to locate the proper court.  Proceedings in family law can be complex. You may wish to contact an attorney for further information or for advice about your specific case.