Can a father legally surrender his rights of a child?

[jmckinney84]

I am pregnant and due april'08. I currently live in North Carolina, I moved here just a month and a half ago from Hawaii where my unborn child's father lives. I didn't leave without telling, we both agreed that being with my parents and siblings would be easier for me at a time like this. He and I are not together. When I found out i was expecting his only option for me was abortion, but i refused due to personal beliefs. Now he is telling me that he is going to sign some documents to surrender his rights as the baby's father? I have researched and researched and can't find anything that allows a person to do this unless both parents are giving the child up for adoption or he agrees for a step-father to adopt the child. Which state will our situation fall under, hawaii or north carolina... she was conceived in Hawaii, will be born in North Carolina, but he lives in Hawaii. Please help me, the anxiety is not good for my pregnancy. Thanks so much.

 

[fairisfair]

I am pregnant and due april'08. I currently live in North Carolina, I moved here just a month and a half ago from Hawaii where my unborn child's father lives. I didn't leave without telling, we both agreed that being with my parents and siblings would be easier for me at a time like this. He and I are not together. When I found out i was expecting his only option for me was abortion, but i refused due to personal beliefs. Now he is telling me that he is going to sign some documents to surrender his rights as the baby's father? I have researched and researched and can't find anything that allows a person to do this unless both parents are giving the child up for adoption or he agrees for a step-father to adopt the child. Which state will our situation fall under, hawaii or north carolina... she was conceived in Hawaii, will be born in North Carolina, but he lives in Hawaii. Please help me, the anxiety is not good for my pregnancy. Thanks so much.

relax. he is full of crap. your research is correct.

 

[Golfball]

He's full of it. Unless there is someone else who will adopt the child, he can't simply surrender his parental rights.

Getting an interstate child support order might get interesting, though.

 

[spallanzani]

He can't terminate his rights and you can get a child support order.

You should do your best to be self-sufficient though--child support is never a guarantee.

 

[Suzz]

Jurisdiction

North Carolina will have jurisdiction over the case if the child is born there, and will retain jurisdiction as long as you and the child live there. That will only change if you and the child move to another state and you ask to have the case moved.

Also, everyone is correct ... he is just blowing smoke. He can't decide to give up his rights or responsibilities to the baby.

Good Luck