Montana § 42-2-606 - Hearing On Petition To Terminate Parental Rights
Full text of Montana Montana Code Annotated § 42-2-606 — Hearing On Petition To Terminate Parental Rights, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 42-2-606. Hearing On Petition To Terminate Parental Rights
Hearing on petition to terminate parental rights. (1) The court shall hold a hearing as soon as practical to determine the identity of and terminate the parental rights of the parents of the child. (2) If a putative father has not been named and no one has registered with the putative father registry, the court shall cause inquiry to be made in an effort to identify any legal father. The inquiry must include whether the mother was married at the time of conception of the child or at any time after conception and prior to birth. (3) Based on the evidence received and the court's inquiry, the court shall enter a finding identifying the father or declaring that the identity of the father could not be determined. (4) Based on the grounds set forth in 42-2-607 and the evidence received at the hearing, the court shall enter an order concerning the parental rights to the child. (5) If the court terminates the parental rights to the child and the department, agency, or prospective adoptive parent has agreed to accept custody of the child until the child is adopted, the court shall issue an order awarding custody of the child to the petitioner.
Source: official Montana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana § 42-2-606
What does Montana Code Annotated § 42-2-606 cover?
Section 42-2-606 ("Hearing On Petition To Terminate Parental Rights") is part of the Montana Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of Montana. 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 Montana § 42-2-606?
A common citation format is "Montana Code Annotated § 42-2-606" (Montana). 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 Montana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Montana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Montana attorney.
How does Montana § 42-2-606 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Montana 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 Montana.