Legal Question in Family Law in Tennessee

Can a child decide if rights are relinquished?

My daughter is 13 years old and resides in the state of TN. For the last 7 years she her biological father has had very little contact with her. She would like for her step-father (of 10 years) to adopt her and take his last name. Her biological father is against this (even though there is no relationship) and says he won't do it. Can she ''divorce'' him? Does she have the right to decide?


Asked on 11/29/07, 1:34 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
KJW Firm PLC

Re: Can a child decide if rights are relinquished?

The proper action would be to file for an adoption and a termination of parental rights. The father would be served and have a right to contest. Two of the grounds for termination of parental rights are 1)non-support or 2) no contact for 4 months. Once the termination is granted, the adoption is an easy step.

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Answered on 11/29/07, 1:52 pm


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