I have read several articles regarding this matter, and I am fully aware of what terminating my rights mean and the long term consequenses are.

My decision isn't based on an inability to pay child support, or because I don't care for or love my son; it's based on the bitter relationship I have with his mother, which I feel will do more harm to my son than she realizes. I have unsuccessfully tried to maintain a civil relationship with my ex, but she can't seem to stop being a bitter spitful person.

Well then you should know that the court won't terminate your rights unless there is a step parent wanting to adopt as well. If there isn't you will have to prove to a judge that the child will be better off a bastard than with you as the father. The judge isn't just going to ask you a series of questions he/she will basically ask why you think this is best and it's up to you to do the rest.

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Originally Posted by mclovin_254

I have read several articles regarding this matter, and I am fully aware of what terminating my rights mean and the long term consequenses are.

My decision isn't based on an inability to pay child support, or because I don't care for or love my son; it's based on the bitter relationship I have with his mother, which I feel will do more harm to my son than she realizes. I have unsucessfully tried to maintain a civil relationship with my ex, but she can't seem to stop being a bitter spitful person.

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What State?

The Judge will ask you about your reasons, ask you for some history, perhaps request a psychological evaluation or evaluations, very probably continue the support order or issue a new one, make a decision.

The Judge will determine if it's more harmful for the child for you to continue your "bitter" relationship with the mother OR for you to walk away.

On the other hand even if you have rights of visitation no one can force you to visit with your child so things might stand as they are and you simply don't exercise your visitation.

Possibly sole physical and legal custody will go to the mother with no visitatation or rights on your part, just the obligation to pay support.

It's too bad this isn't posted on a relationship or parenting board because I have a few observations about you as a father and a man. But that's not for the legal board.