Unmarried Parents Attorney
Child custody, paternity and visitation are some of the most emotional and complicated areas of family law. When kids are involved, it’s easy for parents to feel overwhelmed and sensitive. Custody and parenting are even more difficult for unmarried parents from a legal standpoint. Unmarried parents have different rights and responsibilities from married parents. Figuring out custody issues and other legal matters when parents are not married requires dedicated professional support.
I am attorney George L. Metcalfe. At my practice George Lambeth Metcalfe, P.A., in Vero Beach, Florida, I have helped unmarried parents resolve family law problems and sort through legal issues.
What To Know About Paternity And Custody
If a man and woman are not married at the time of their child’s birth, the mother automatically is assigned sole legal and physical custody of the child. That means the child will reside with her 100% of the time, and she will have full control over making decisions on its behalf. This includes medical, educational, spiritual and other essential choices in the child’s life.
Establishing paternity is an essential legal procedure if not done immediately in the hospital. A child’s father must establish paternity before he has any rights to parenting time. Parenting time and visitation can be denied by the child’s mother at any time if paternity is not legally established, even if the unmarried father is paying child support. That means an unwed mother can take her child from their father at any time in Florida, as she is the only legal guardian of the child. Establishing paternity is the only way to work to ensure a father has rights in their child’s life.
However, in custody cases where paternity is established, like in matters involving divorce, for example, the courts do not favor one parent over the other based on gender. In these situations, the courts make decisions based on what they believe is in the best interests of the child. When determining custody and time-sharing arrangements the courts will decide based on the circumstances of the case.
More Information For Unmarried Parents
When a child’s parents are unmarried, it can introduce additional complications for custody, parenting, visitation and support. Unmarried parents have legal rights, but theirs may differ from those of married parents. However, understanding the specific rights and responsibilities that apply is essential in raising and protecting your child.
For assistance in resolving these issues, it’s crucial to work with an attorney. I can evaluate your situation, answer questions and help you determine what the path forward should look like. Whether you are trying to establish paternity or navigating a custody issue, I can help.
To get started, contact me to set up an initial consultation. Call 772-292-0930 or use the online contact form to schedule an appointment.