Arizona § 8-537 - Termination adjudication hearing
Full text of Arizona Arizona Revised Statutes § 8-537 — Termination adjudication hearing, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-537. Termination adjudication hearing
A. If a petition for terminating the parent-child relationship is contested, the court shall hold a termination adjudication hearing within ninety days after the initial severance hearing. The general public shall be excluded and only such persons admitted whose presence the judge finds to have a direct interest in the case or the work of the court, provided that such person so admitted shall not disclose any information secured at the hearing. The court may require the presence of any parties and witnesses it deems necessary to the disposition of the petition, except that a parent who has executed a waiver pursuant to section 8-535 or who has relinquished the parent's rights to the child shall not be required to appear at the hearing.
B. The court's findings with respect to grounds for termination shall be based on clear and convincing evidence under the rules applicable and adhering to the trial of civil causes. The court may consider any and all reports required by this article or ordered by the court pursuant to this article and such reports are admissible in evidence without objection.
C. If a parent does not appear at the pretrial conference, status conference or termination adjudication hearing, the court, after determining that the parent has been instructed as provided in section 8-535, may find that the parent has waived the parent's legal rights and is deemed to have admitted the allegations of the petition by the failure to appear. The court may terminate the parent-child relationship as to a parent who does not appear based on the record and evidence presented as provided in rules prescribed by the supreme court.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona § 8-537
What does Arizona Revised Statutes § 8-537 cover?
Section 8-537 ("Termination adjudication hearing") is part of the Arizona Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Arizona. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arizona § 8-537?
A common citation format is "Arizona Revised Statutes § 8-537" (Arizona). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arizona law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arizona official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arizona attorney.
How does Arizona § 8-537 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arizona can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arizona.