Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania

termination of parental rights

Can the father of my newborn voluntarily terminate his parental rights as long as I agree. In exchange I will not request child support other than an agreed-upon amount of money that he will give me when he terminates his rights. We would like to have a lawyer document our agreement. Is this popssible and if so will it stand up in court should the need ever arise?


Asked on 7/21/04, 10:43 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Ilene Young Young Law Offices

Re: termination of parental rights

In Pennsylvania, voluntary relinquishment of parental rights is available prior to adoption. However, absent adoption, a parent may not voluntarily relinquish parental rights to avoid child support. Similarly, mothers are not permitted by law to contract away a child's right to support. Therefore the contract you propose is unfortunately not tenable.

Please seek the advice of an experienced domestic relations attorney in your area for further counsel regarding the particulars of your situation.

Ilene Young, Esquire/ Civil & Family Practice/215-444-0445

NOTICE

As you are not a client of our firm, discussion of the above topic is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Applicability of the legal principles discussed may differ substantially in individual situations, different counties, or in different states. If you have a specific concern or legal problem, do not rely on these materials. Be sure to seek the advice of an attorney about your particular situation and facts.

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Answered on 7/23/04, 3:11 pm


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