In the Matter of Matthews

BAKES, Justice.

This appeal involves an interpretation of I.C. § 16-2001 et seq., the sections of the Idaho Code providing for a termination of the parent-child relationship. Petitioner-appellant Judith C. Maier, a divorced parent who was awarded custody of a minor child, is attempting to terminate the parental rights of the respondent Vance J. Matthews, the non-custodial parent, on the ground that he has abandoned the child by having failed to maintain a normal parental relationship with the child.

John Todd Matthews was born on July 26, 1966. His parents, Vance J. Matthews and Judith C.…