Iowa Code 600A.1 – Construction
Current as of: 2023 | Check for updates
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1. This chapter shall be construed liberally. The best interest of the child subject to the proceedings of this chapter shall be the paramount consideration in interpreting this chapter. However, the interests of the parents of this child or any natural person standing in the place of the parents to this child shall be given due consideration in this interpretation.
Terms Used In Iowa Code 600A.1
- Biological parent: means a parent who has been a biological party to the procreation of the child. See Iowa Code 600A.2
- Child: means a son or daughter of a parent, whether by birth or adoption. See Iowa Code 600A.2
- Court: means a district court. See Iowa Code 600A.2
- Parent: means a father or mother of a child, whether by birth or adoption. See Iowa Code 600A.2
- person: means individual, corporation, limited liability company, government or governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership or association, or any other legal entity. See Iowa Code 4.1
- Termination of parental rights: means a complete severance and extinguishment of a parent-child relationship between one or both living parents and the child. See Iowa Code 600A.2
2. The best interest of a child requires that each biological parent affirmatively assume the duties encompassed by the role of being a parent. In determining whether a parent has affirmatively assumed the duties of a parent, the court shall consider, but is not limited to consideration of, the fulfillment of financial obligations, demonstration of continued interest in the child, demonstration of a genuine effort to maintain communication with the child, and demonstration of the establishment and maintenance of a place of importance in the child’s life. Application of this chapter is limited to termination of parental rights proceedings and shall not apply to actions to establish paternity or to overcome established paternity.