Typically, determining neglect or unfitness of a parent involves the court considering whether the following conditions exist:
Mental or emotional illness of the parent, rendering them consistently unable to care for their child’s needs for extended periods of time.
Physically, sexually, or emotionally abusive conduct toward the child.
Conduct rising to involuntary servitude of the child.
Excessive use of drugs or intoxicating alcohol, rendering the parent consistently unable to care for the child.
Continuous failure to provide the child with adequate food, shelter, clothing, education, or other care necessary for their health and development.
Conviction of a felony indicating the unfitness of the parent to provide adequate care and control.
A near fatality or fatality in certain circumstances.
The child suffering a physical injury resulting in substantial bodily harm.
Inability of the appropriate agencies to reunite a family despite reasonable efforts.