[kclara]

We recently found out that a woman my husband had a affair with is pregnant. He does not want to have anything to do with her or the unborn child... physically or financially. He has told her that he will sign over all parental rights and she has agreed. We are seeking legal counsel. What type of paperwork will need to be completed for this to happen?

[ScottGem]

Check with your local Family court. They can advise what forms you need to complete. However, relinquishing his rights does NOT absolve him from financial responsibility. All it does is remove any right to custody, visitation or any say in how the child is raised. The mother can still ask for and receive child support.

[jrussole]

Bravo ScottGem
Thank you for a brilliant answer! It simply amazes me how people can absolve themselves so readily and easily when it comes to an unborn child that they put into this world. Your husband made a financial commitment the moment he decided to have unprotected sex. It is up to the custodial parent to release him from financial responsibility. Therefore, it is the best interest of your husband to be very nice and request absolution of financial responsibility from his mistress. Although, in years to ensue he may regret this action of relinquishing his rights. After all, it is his child. And someday that child may want to know him, or request medical information, heritage information, or desire a reason why he relinquished his rights as a father. He may regret his decision at a later time.