By Sharla Stevens
A question has recently been posed as to whether there’s an option for men to opt out of fatherhood early in a pregnancy via something called a “financial abortion” in an article by Catherine Deveny for the ABC.
Deveny commented that “I believe a woman should not be forced to become a mother any more than a man should be forced to become a father. If a man has not said, “I want to have a child with you now-ish”, it is fair to assume he doesn’t, and therefore should be able to legally withdraw from becoming a parent. It would also be less traumatic for children, and more empowering for women.”
If made available, a financial abortion would legally allow a man, who had previously stated their unwillingness to become a parent to cut all financial ties but also forfeit all rights and responsibilities with the child and mother within the early stages of the pregnancy in a binding and non-reversible decision, similar to sperm donors. Deveny reasons “Is it fair for people to be forced to become parents against their wishes? If it’s not fair for a woman to be forced to bear a child or have an abortion, it follows it’s not fair for a man to be forced to become a parent…When we consent to having sex, we do not automatically consent to becoming a parent.”
This is a very controversial subject, and certainly not anything that the government is considering, but may get more attention in the future.
See Catherine Deveny’s full article at: http://mobile.abc.net.au/news/2016-12-04/financial-abortion-men-opt-out-parenthood/8049576
If you need assistance in relation to a family law matter please contact Cristina Huesch, or one of our solicitors Sharla Stevens or Angela Li, at Alliance Family Law on (02) 6223 2400.
(Please note: Our blogs are not legal advice. For details about how to obtain correct legal advice please arrange a free conference with Alliance Family Law.)
