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 Missouri, a parent's voluntary relinquishment of parental rights is a serious legal action that requires court approval. This process involves a parent asking the court to legally terminate their relationship with their child, which includes forfeiting rights to custody, visitation, and the responsibility to support the child financially. However, Missouri courts typically do not permit the termination of parental rights unless there is another individual ready and willing to adopt the child, such as a stepparent or another family member. The court must also find that the adoption is in the child's best interests before it will approve the termination of parental rights. This ensures that the child's welfare is the primary concern in such proceedings. The process is governed by Missouri state statutes, and an attorney can provide guidance on the specific legal requirements and implications of relinquishing parental rights.