Child Support And Parental Rights

Summary

In Tennessee, child support is mandatory until the child turns 18. Voluntarily terminating parental rights is generally only approved if its in the childs best interest. Legal Aid of East Tennessee can provide free legal assistance for child support and parental rights issues.

Full Conversation

I need to talk to someone
What specific legal issue are you facing, Dylan?
Child rights
What specific issue regarding child rights are you facing, Dylan?
child support and signing rights away
What state are you located in, Dylan? Laws regarding child support and parental rights vary by state.
Tennessee
What is the current arrangement for child support and why do you want to sign your rights away?

In Tennessee:
- Child support is mandatory until the child turns *.
- Voluntarily terminating parental rights is generally only approved if it's in the child's best interest.
I’m not ready for a kid at all and I want my child to live the best life possible I got trapped by a female I slept with
Have you considered discussing this with the child's mother and possibly involving a mediator to reach an agreement?
The child got taken away by cps bc she got busted up with meth
What steps have you taken so far to address this situation with Child Protective Services (CPS)?
nothing I don’t know what to do
What is your current relationship with CPS? Have they contacted you regarding the child's situation?

In Tennessee, CPS aims to place children with biological parents if safe and possible.
I never spoke to them before I just wanna know if I’ll be okay I never been to court before and I’m scared
It's normal to feel scared. Have you been summoned to court by CPS or is there a scheduled hearing?
this Monday and I’m scared I never been to court
What is the nature of the court hearing on Monday? Is it related to child custody or child support?
I don’t know really I’m guessing it’s something along the lines she ended up keeping the kid after I told her I was not ready and she got into meth charges so they took the kid away from her I’m not on the birth certificate or anything
What is your legal representation situation? Do you have a lawyer to guide you through this process?
no I don’t
What is your financial situation? Depending on your income, you may qualify for free legal aid in Tennessee.
I am poor
Do you have any proof of your income? In Tennessee, you may be eligible for free legal aid if you meet certain income requirements.
I have no job no nothing I’m only * I’m still trying to figure my life out
Based on your situation, you may qualify for free legal aid. Contact Legal Aid of East Tennessee at (*) *-* for assistance.
what’s this number for
The number provided is for Legal Aid of East Tennessee. They can provide free legal assistance given your financial situation.
Can they help with this problem
Yes, Legal Aid of East Tennessee can assist with child custody and support issues. They can guide you through the legal process and represent you in court.
well do you think I’ll be okay if I just sign my rights over
What is your main concern about signing your rights over? It's important to understand that this decision can have significant implications.
I’m not ready for a kid at all I’m really not
What are your long-term plans regarding the child? It's important to consider all options and potential consequences before making a decision.
sign my rights away make sure the kid is in good care at least I was not ready
What is the current status of the child? Are they in foster care or with a relative?
the child is * In she’s in cps right now
What is the name of the county where the child is currently under the care of CPS? This will help me provide you with the contact details of the local CPS office.
Hardin county
The contact details for the Hardin County Department of Children's Services are as follows: *-*-*, located at * Brazelton St, Unit *, Savannah, TN *.
am I going to get in trouble In the court I’m really worried
Have you been charged with any crime or neglect related to the child?
General Information:
- Courts generally prioritize the child's best interest.
- Legal representation can help navigate the process.
No I never had anything to do with the kid at all
If you're not on the birth certificate and haven't been legally established as the father, you may not be obligated for child support. However, consult with a lawyer for accurate advice.
What’s this number for
The number provided is for Legal Aid of East Tennessee. They can provide free legal assistance given your financial situation.