Q: What rights do I have in keeping my pregnancy despite my boyfriend's wishes in Utah?
I am 24 years old, living independently, and currently pregnant. My boyfriend, age 25, lives with roommates and has expressed that he cannot support the baby financially. He wants me to terminate the pregnancy, but I want to keep the baby due to my personal beliefs. We haven't involved family members in this matter, and he hasn't told his family about the pregnancy because they disapprove of our relationship. What rights do I have in deciding to keep the baby?
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A:
In Utah, as the pregnant individual, you have the legal right to make decisions regarding your pregnancy, including the choice to keep the baby. The decision to continue or terminate a pregnancy is ultimately yours to make, and your boyfriend cannot legally force you to terminate the pregnancy. Your personal beliefs and autonomy over your body are protected by law, and you are not required to comply with his wishes.
Since you are 24 years old and living independently, you are legally able to make decisions for yourself without requiring anyone's permission, including your boyfriend's. While he may express his feelings about the pregnancy, his opinion does not override your rights to decide whether to continue the pregnancy.
It may be helpful to have an open conversation with your boyfriend about your decision, but ultimately, this is a personal choice for you. If you feel pressured or uncomfortable, it’s important to consider your emotional well-being and support system. You might also find it beneficial to consult with a counselor or legal advisor to ensure you understand all aspects of your decision and any potential challenges you might face.
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