Opinion ID: 1834173
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 7

Heading: Appellate Waiver.

Text: Douglas argues Elizabeth has waived her right to challenge the court's decision by accepting child support as ordered by the court and by proceeding with a contempt petition when support was not timely made. Under the appellate waiver doctrine, [o]ne who accepts material and substantial benefits under a judgment or decree may not ordinarily challenge the provisions under which such benefits are awarded. In re Marriage of Abild, 243 N.W.2d 541, 542-43 (Iowa 1976). We have retreated from the strict application of the doctrine prevalent in earlier cases. Johnson v. Johnson, 301 N.W.2d 750, 752 (Iowa 1981). Here, the district court granted visitation to Douglas and required Elizabeth to comply with counseling services. The support requirements of the decree are for the benefit of Ayla, not her mother. The action of Elizabeth in attempting to enforce the court's order and to collect child support for the benefit of the child would not constitute a waiver of Elizabeth's rights of appeal.