Long time associate and attorney for John Edwards, Wade Smith says the former U.S. Senator and presidential candidate’s life has been a trainwreck. Smith says he had spoken to Edwards on many occasions about claiming paternity for Rielle Hunter’s child before the announcement made Thursday.

Edwards' and Rielle Hunter’s daughter Francis Quinn Hunter is nearing her second birthday. She was born February 27, 2008. Smith doesn’t know if the child’s birth certificate will be altered to name Edwards as the father or if Rielle will change her daughters last name from Hunter to Edwards.

Smith says the issue of child support has been discussed and settled though he was not a part of the agreement and does not know specifics.

Elizabeth Edwards told the Associated Press that her family is relieved now that the paternity has been confirmed. Smith calls her a strong woman and believes she will be fine.

Smith does say that John and Elizabeth have not had joy or happiness in their life for sometime now.

John Edwards left for Haiti Thursday morning to help with earthquake relief and will not be granting interviews.