Arizona § 8-538 - Court order; form; contents
Full text of Arizona Arizona Revised Statutes § 8-538 — Court order; form; contents, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-538. Court order; form; contents
A. Every order of the court terminating the parent-child relationship or transferring legal custody or guardianship of the person of the child or providing for protective supervision of the child shall be in writing and shall recite the findings on which the order is based, including findings pertaining to placement of the child and the court's jurisdiction. The order is conclusive and binding on all persons from the date of entry.
B. If the court finds grounds for the termination of the parent-child relationship it shall terminate the relationship and take one of the following courses of action:
1. Appoint an individual as guardian of the child.
2. Appoint an individual as the child's guardian and vest legal custody in another individual or in an authorized agency.
C. If the court finds that placement with a grandparent or another member of the child's extended family including a person who has a significant relationship with the child is not in the child's best interests, the court shall make specific written findings in support of its decision.
D. The court shall also make an order fixing responsibility for the child's support. The parent-child relationship may be terminated with respect to one parent without affecting the relationship between the child and the other parent.
E. If the court does not order termination of the parent-child relationship, it shall dismiss the petition, provided that if the court finds that the best interests of the child require substitution or supplementation of parental care and supervision, the court shall make such orders as it deems necessary.
Source: official Arizona text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona § 8-538
What does Arizona Revised Statutes § 8-538 cover?
Section 8-538 ("Court order; form; contents") 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 § 8-538?
A common citation format is "Arizona Revised Statutes § 8-538" (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 § 8-538 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.