Aurora, IL asked in Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for Illinois

Q: Can you voluntary relinquish your parental right in Illinois?

After having an affair, the women I had an affair with is pregnant. I'm trying to save my marriage and family and want nothing to do with this child. Would like to have no contact from the mother of the child as well.

3 Lawyer Answers
Cheryl Powell
Cheryl Powell
Answered
  • Divorce Lawyer
  • Mt Vernon, IL
  • Licensed in Illinois

A: No, u cannot voluntarily relinquish your rights. They can only be terminated due to an adoption or abuse and neglect.

Gary W. Wangler
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Answered
  • Divorce Lawyer
  • Belleville, IL
  • Licensed in Illinois

A: You cannot voluntarily relinquish your parental rights in Illinois unless you consent to adoption by another party and the court terminates your parental rights. However, at this point it is premature to determine whether in fact you are the father. If the child is born alive, paternity may easily be determined by means of a DNA test. If the mother will not consent to such a test, you can file a petition in court to establish paternity or non-paternity.

Dennis Delman
Dennis Delman
Answered
  • Divorce Lawyer
  • Skokie, IL
  • Licensed in Illinois

A: only if the mother agrees and the child would not become a burden on the state

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