For any father, it is important to know that having a biological child with someone does not automatically grant you equal parental rights in Florida unless you are married at the time of your child’s birth to your child’s birth mother. Unmarried fathers in Florida, on the other hand, must take additional steps to establish legal rights to their children. While it may be frustrating and require effort, unmarried fathers can obtain equal rights and responsibilities, including child support payments. Seeking guidance from our Florida family law attorneys can help navigate this process and ensure all necessary steps are taken for visitation, custody, and legal decision-making authority. For personalized information based on individual circumstances, schedule a consultation with experienced family law attorneys at HAWM Law today.

What are Different Ways I Can Establish Paternity?

In Florida, if parents are not married, the father has no presumptive rights to the child, as all legal rights and decision-making authority belong to the birth mother. This can lead to potential complications if the couple separates, as the mother can legally withhold visitation from the father. Where the parents are married, paternity is automatically established.

To gain these rights, the father must legally establish paternity, which can be done by:

• Signing a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity with the mother and submitting it to the court.
• DNA or other genetic testing.
• Putting their name on the birth certificate.