There is a long-standing misconception that a child’s relationship with their mother is the most important thing. In reality, they are best served by having both parents in their lives. Fathers have rights and obligations, but they need the support of skilled family lawyers to ensure they are protected.
If you are involved in a custody dispute, it is vital that you seek out strong legal counsel right away. An Erlanger father’s rights lawyer at Busald Funk Zevely could help you secure a relationship with your children and protect your ability to play a part in their lives.
Why Father’s Rights Are Important
It is helpful for children to have a positive relationship with their fathers. Not only is it best to have both parents in their lives, but a biological father can share important information with them regarding their culture and family medical history that might not be available anywhere else.
Establishing this relationship is also typically a positive thing for the parent. By certifying their rights in court, they have the opportunity to obtain visitation or even make important decisions in their children’s lives.
Ultimately, our Erlanger father’s rights attorneys aim to ensure fair outcomes in these decisions. Positive outcomes are likely when all parties have an opportunity to build a relationship with their kids.
Establishing Paternity
Before anyone can enforce their rights or face their obligations, they must be formally recognized as the biological parent of a minor child. This is done through the process of establishing paternity. When two people are married, there is a presumption that any children born during this relationship belong to the spouses.
For unmarried parents, some additional steps must be completed. If both parties agree on the identity of the father, they can sign a document known as a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity.
While many people are able to reach this outcome amicably, there are times when the courts must get involved. Either party has the right to file a lawsuit and petition the court to determine biological parenthood. This usually involves the court ordering a DNA test. If there is a match, the judge will establish paternity.
This is only the first step in the process, however. Our Erlanger lawyers could help a father with every step toward securing their parental rights.
Rights to Custody or Visitation
Once paternity is established, it is important to note that custody and visitation are not automatically awarded. However, these rights do allow a father to petition for access to their children. This could include visitation as well as physical or legal custody.
When a judge takes up a request for custody, their decision must be based on what is best for the juvenile. That means it is possible both parents might not get their preferred outcome. The court will consider a variety of factors in their decision, including the relationship between the child and their parents, the mental health of all parties, and any history of domestic abuse.
Reach Out to a Father’s Rights Attorney in Erlanger Today
As a parent, you deserve the opportunity to build a relationship with your children. While this might feel like an uphill battle, an Erlanger father’s rights lawyer can help you fight for what you are entitled to. Call today for a private consultation.