Legal Question in Family Law in California

Is it legal to voluntarily relinquish your parental rights

I was awarded physical custody of my child because her mom was abusive. Her mom had to pay me child support. My child (14yrs old)now wants to go back with her mom so she falsly accused me of child abuse. I wasnt charged because she only made allegations without proof. I know her mom only put her up to this so she could have her back and get child support.

I dont want to have anything to do with my child anymore, I am heartbroken that she would lie for her mom like this. I want to relinquish my rights and have nothing else to do with her.

In the State of California, is it legal for me to do this after what they did? Also if I give up my rights, am I responsible for child support any further?


Asked on 5/10/05, 7:58 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lyle Johnson Bedi and Johnson Attorneys at Law

Re: Is it legal to voluntarily relinquish your parental rights

You cannot just relinquish your parental rights to avoid the payment of child support. Such a relinquishment would require a court order. No court is going to make such an order under the facts which you provided. You should attempt to repair your relationship with your daughter. A good family counselor can help with this process. Move quickly to protect yourself and your daughter. Teenagers often make poor decisions that is why they cannot enter into contracts.

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Answered on 5/10/05, 11:23 pm


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