Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

unmarried fathers rights to child

i live in floridia what are my rights to my child?the mother has ran off with her do I have any rights being unmarried?


Asked on 8/06/07, 4:20 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Michael Stewart Michael D. Stewart

Re: unmarried fathers rights to child

Yes, though you will have to bring court action for custody/visitation.

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Answered on 8/06/07, 7:49 pm
Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: unmarried fathers rights to child

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

An unmarried father has the same rights as any other father. You can file a Petition to Determine Paternity and then ask the court to enforce your legal rights to claim custody and/or visitation rights. If the mother refuses to cooperate, the court can make her submit the child for DNA testing. If she refuses to provide visitation, she can risk losing the right to serve as the primary residential parent of the child.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 8/07/07, 2:57 am


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