Legal Question in Family Law in Arizona

Natural father not involved in my childs life.

My son is 6 years old and hasn't had a relationship with his natural father for 5 years. The father is in prison until son is 10. The father hasn't paid child support in 5 years. Can I terminate his rights but when he gets out of prison maybe let him see my son? I am married now and have other children if something were to happen to me I would not want my son taken from the only family he has ever known. What should I do?


Asked on 3/31/03, 11:27 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Rich Peters R. J. Peters & Assoc., P.C.

Re: Natural father not involved in my childs life.

You can and should pursue a termination of parental rights. In Arizona, a parent is considerd to "abandon" his child if he has no contact and pays no support for more than 6 months. You clearly have the basis to do so.

I can explain the procedures better by phone or in person. There is too much to cover via e'mail (and I am not the greatest typist). We offer free 1/2 hour consultations, in which we can discuss the matter in more detail.

Please call me directly to discuss the specifics of your case, or contact my assistant Cathy to schedule a free 1/2 hour consultation. I look forward to talking with you.

/s/ Rich J. Peters, Attorney

JON C. DAKE & ASSOC., P.C.

1422 N. 2nd Street, Suite 100

Phoenix, Arizona 85004

602.254.7251

602.254-1229 (facsimile)

see our web page at www.familylawaz.com

Read more
Answered on 3/31/03, 12:47 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Arizona