A biological father who is not married to the mother of his child does not automatically have parental rights. In order for you to establish paternity of your child and have the ability to request visitation rights, shared parenting or even custody of your child, you must file a request with the court. Without a court order, your child’s mother can make all decisions regarding the care of your child without notifying you. This includes placing your child for adoption.
Men who suspect they may have fathered children and want to get the rights they deserve often turn to an attorney who focuses on Family Law Paragould dads trust to help them file a petition with the court. After a judge issues a paternity order, an unmarried father has all the rights of a married one. As the legal father, you can enroll your child in school, take him or her to the doctor and get regular visits.
Legal fathers have the right to visit their children and take an active role in their lives. Without a judge’s order, you can only spend time with your child when his or her mother allows you to. This can be problematic if you separate and can’t agree on when you should spend time alone with your child or children. By hiring a lawyer who practices Family Law Paragould fathers can get a court ordered visitation schedule that the child’s mother is required to comply with until the child reaches 18 years of age. To know more, click here.
A man who thinks he may have fathered a baby out of wedlock can protect his rights until the paternity hearing by putting his name of the putative father registry. By registering with the state, a father can ensure that he receives notification if the child’s mother makes an attempt to place the child for adoption.
If you suspect you may be the father of a child and want to know for sure or if you know you are the father and want to establish your rights to file for custody or visitation, OMG Law Firm may be able to help you with the required paperwork so you can get your case in front of a judge.
