In Re Victoria H.

Case Number
M2017-01162-COA-R3-PT

This is a termination of parental rights case. Appellant/Father appeals the trial court’s termination of his parental rights on the grounds of: (1) failure to establish/exercise paternity; (2) abandonment by willful failure to support; and (3) abandonment by an incarcerated parent for wanton disregard. Appellant also appeals the trial court’s finding that termination of his parental rights is in the child’s best interest. Because Appellee Tennessee Department of Children’s Services did not meet its burden to show that Father has the ability to pay support, we reverse the trial court’s termination of Father’s parental rights on the ground of abandonment by willful failure to support. The trial court’s order is otherwise affirmed.

Authoring Judge
Judge Kenny Armstrong
Originating Judge
Judge Ronnie J. T. Blevins, II
Case Name
In Re Victoria H.
Date Filed
Dissent or Concur
No
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