Legal Question in Family Law in Georgia

? Father's Responsibility

My son has two girl by an old girlfriend. They were never married, but the girls use his name, and he pays weekly child support. The mother has told him that if he will ''sign away his rights'' he won't have to pay support anymore. Is that correct? I would hate for him to do something stupid. (He has never legitimized the girls legally.)


Asked on 5/30/02, 1:30 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Charles W. Field Charles W. Field, Attorney at Law

Re: ? Father's Responsibility

Ordinarily, I would say that if he relinquishes his parental rights he also gets rid of his obligations. However, there are several unanswered questions, such as, Is there an adoption pending? What exactly is he being asked to sign? Since, as you fear, he may make a big mistake, I would strongly advise that he consult with a local attorney who can discuss these questions and, more importantly, review any documents before they are signed.

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Answered on 5/30/02, 3:40 pm
Barbara Briley Barbara B. Briley PC

Re: ? Father's Responsibility

What is he signing? Should he consent to the termination of his parental rights and the child is adopted then he will no longer be responsible for child support since the adopted child is the legal child of the person who adopts. If the children are not adopted he could still be responsible for child support. However, there are several questions that must be answered first and I would highly recommend that he see an attorney so that he will be able to answer all the questions about what he is being asked to sign.

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Answered on 6/02/02, 12:30 am


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