QUESTION
If my parental rights are terminated and my son is adopted by his step-father, do I still pay child support?
Asked on Aug 17th, 2013 on Child Custody - Missouri
More details to this question:
My ex has filed with the court stating I abandoned my child and do not pay child support. An ad in the local newspaper says I have 30 days to file a response or a decree will be granted. Resulting in an adoption which will terminate my parental rights and declare my child to be the child of his step father for all legal purposes. I have never missed a child support payment. I do not wish to dispute the adoption. However, if my child is adopted, do I still have an obligation to continue paying child support?
7 ANSWERS
Family Law Attorney serving Peoria, AZ
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The Law Firm of Jessica M. Cotter, P.L.L.C.
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In Arizona your obligation to pay child support would end upon the order of adoption entered, declaring the step-father to be the adoptive father. You should consult with an experienced adoption attorney in your area to review the local rules and statutes.
Answered on Aug 21st, 2013 at 11:58 AM
Commercial Contracts Attorney serving Boise, ID
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Peters Law, PLLC
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No, child support stops if you are not the father.
Answered on Aug 20th, 2013 at 1:26 AM
4 Awards
If adopted, there will be no obligation for child support.
Answered on Aug 20th, 2013 at 1:21 AM
Appellate Attorney serving Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
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Musilli Brennan Associates, PLLC
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See an attorney, do it right. Adoption should end future child support obligations only, not those presently in arrears.
Answered on Aug 20th, 2013 at 12:41 AM
Divorce Attorney serving Bloomfield Hills, MI
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Catchick Law, P.C.
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I would not recommend being passive about the case proceedings, even if you are okay with the step-father adopting the child. You should appear in Court to verify that you are not objecting to the termination of your parental rights, AND to confirm, in writing, that you will not owe any child support once the adoption is completed. Just because your parental rights are formally terminated by the Court does NOT automatically mean you are relieved of your child support obligation.
Answered on Aug 20th, 2013 at 12:39 AM
Divorce & Separation Attorney serving Menasha, WI
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Petit & Dommershausen, S.C.
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No child support will terminate upon adoption.
Answered on Aug 20th, 2013 at 12:38 AM
No, if your child is adopted, your duty to support is terminated.
Answered on Aug 20th, 2013 at 12:35 AM