Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
“After nine years my daughter’s father has decided he no longer want to be a part of her life. He has requested to terminate his rights in exchange for no child support. From what I understand if his rights are terminated he is not responsible to pay child support. How often do courts terminate parental rights? I feel if he doesn?t want any contact with her that?s fine but he should still be financially responsible for her.”
Question: He can likely give up his rights (or stop exercising them), but not his responsibilities. Even if he wants to be out of your daughter’s life, he’ll still have to pay support unless someone else adopts. He can’t, through unilateral action, terminate your daughter’s right to be supported by both of her parents.
