Legal Reasons to End a Parent’s Rights in Nevada

Is a child you care about living in fear or getting hurt because of something their mom or dad is doing—or not doing?

If this sounds familiar, it’s important to understand when and why the law might allow you to end that parent’s legal rights. This could help protect the child and give them a safer future.

Whether you’re a parent, stepparent, guardian—or even a parent being accused of not doing enough—Smith Legal Group is here to help. We know this is a big decision, and we’re here to guide you with clear answers and real support.

Nevada Makes It Hard to Terminate Parental Rights

The law doesn’t let someone lose their parental rights easily—and that’s on purpose.

• Parents have rights: Nevada protects a parent’s right to be involved in their child’s life.
• Child’s best interest matters most: The court will only approve if it’s clearly better for the child.
• Serious problems must be shown: Just being difficult or not involved isn’t enough. You need real proof.

Common Legal Reasons for Termination

Below are the most common reasons someone may seek to terminate another parent’s rights in Nevada:

1. Abandonment

This means the parent hasn’t tried to stay in touch or provide support for six months or more.

Examples:

• Not calling, visiting, or talking to the child
• Skipping school events, doctor visits, or everyday parenting
• Not paying child support (if ordered) and not having a good reason

2. Unfit Parent

A parent may be called “unfit” if they can’t or won’t take proper care of their child.

Signs of being unfit:

• Addiction: The parent is using drugs or alcohol and it’s affecting their ability to care for the child
• Abuse or neglect: The parent has hurt the child, or CPS has gotten involved
• Serious mental illness: If the parent has untreated mental health issues that make it unsafe for the child
• Unsafe home: The child is living in a home that’s dangerous, dirty, or missing basic needs

To prove this, you’ll usually need things like police reports, medical records, or statements from people who know the situation.

3. Failure to Make Changes

Sometimes, a parent is told what they need to do to fix a problem—like take parenting classes, stop using drugs, or go to counseling. If they don’t follow through, or keep making the same mistakes, the court may step in.

Examples:

• Skipping court-ordered programs
• Still exposing the child to violence or drugs
• Not making real progress after being given help

The court looks at whether the parent is actually trying—and improving.

4. Danger to the Child (Including Crime Victims)

If the parent’s behavior is hurting the child or putting them in danger, the court can end their rights to keep the child safe.

Examples:

• The child was hurt by the parent (abuse or neglect)
• The child was a victim of a crime involving the parent
• The parent allows illegal activity around the child (like drug use or violence)
• The child shows signs of emotional trauma because of the parent
• There’s a real chance the child could be hurt again in the future

Remember, the child’s safety always comes first.

Is Adoption Required?

No. You don’t need someone lined up to adopt the child in order to ask for termination. But if there is a stable, loving person (like a stepparent or grandparent) ready to step in, it can help your case. The court wants to know the child will be cared for.

Let’s Talk About What’s Best for the Child

Termination of parental rights is a serious step—and it’s not easy. But if it’s what’s needed to protect a child you care about, Smith Legal Group is ready to help.

We’ll listen to your story, explain your options in plain English, and support you every step of the way.

Contact us at 702-410-5001 today to schedule a free consultation.