Parental Rights in New Hampshire

New Hampshire Parental Rights News

Should the U.S. “Make Raising Your Own Children Illegal?”

February 9, 2022

“If California is ever going to achieve true equity, the state must require parents to give away their children. … My solution—making raising your own children illegal—is simple…”  So said Joe Matthews, a columnist for the Ventura County Star, in an opinion piece published on January 13, 2022. His opinion piece was republished a few…

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New Hampshire State Law and Parental Rights

At Risk

New Hampshire does not have a state statute that explicitly defines and protects parental rights as fundamental rights.

  • New Hampshire RSA 461-A:6 outlines determination of parental rights and responsibilities; as well as the factors evaluated in decided best interest of the child.
  • RSA 461-A:11 governs the modification of parental rights and responsibilities.
  • RSA 461-A:13 establishes grandparent visitation rights.
  • RSA 461-A:16 establishes the guidelines for appointing a guardian ad litem for children involved in proceedings regarding parental issues.

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New Hampshire Courts and Parental Rights

"Strict Scrutiny" Applied to Parental Rights

However, this precedent is subject to change.

Re R.A., 891 A.2d 564, 576 (N.H. 2005) (plurality) "As parental rights are fundamental and protected by due process, strict scrutiny should be applied when examining statutes dealing with these rights."