§9.27 Abandonment

• Library: Juvenile Law Deskbook (2021 Supp.)

1. (§9.27) Abandonment

To determine abandonment under § 211.447.5(1), RSMo Supp. 2019, courts examine the parents’ intent by considering their conduct both during the six-month statutory period and also before and after the statutory period. In re G.T.M., 360 S.W.3d 318, 323 (Mo. App. S.D. 2012). “The greatest weight must be given to conduct during the statutory period.” Id. (emphasis added). Moreover, this statutory period does not have to immediately precede the filing of the termination petition. In re...