2006 Utah Code - 78-3a-402 — Judicial process for termination -- Parent unfit or incompetent -- Best interest of child.

     78-3a-402.   Judicial process for termination -- Parent unfit or incompetent -- Best interest of child.
     (1) This part provides a judicial process for voluntary and involuntary severance of the parent-child relationship, designed to safeguard the rights and interests of all parties concerned and promote their welfare and that of the state.
     (2) Wherever possible family life should be strengthened and preserved, but if a parent is found, by reason of his conduct or condition, to be unfit or incompetent based upon any of the grounds for termination described in this part, the court shall then consider the welfare and best interest of the child of paramount importance in determining whether termination of parental rights shall be ordered.

Renumbered and Amended by Chapter 260, 1994 General Session