What Must a Non-Married Father Do to Gain Custody or Visitation Rights?

 Posted on April 24, 2024 in Paternity

Becoming a parent is a life-changing and joyous experience filled with love and, above all, responsibilities. For non-married fathers, the journey to gaining custody and visitation rights is a legal maze with important steps to follow. One of the critical factors in this process is establishing paternity that forms the foundation for asserting parental rights for non-married fathers. Suppose you are a non-married father looking to gain custody or visitation rights of your child; contact a lawyer to navigate this important process.

At The Law Office of Nicholas W. Richardson, P.C, our straightforward, no-nonsense approach to divorce and family law is what has made our firm enormously effective in representing both families and individuals who are often engulfed in some of the most important processes and decisions of their lives. When the stakes are high, The Law Office of Nicholas W. Richardson, P.C delivers for you.

Understanding Paternity 

Paternity is the legal recognition of a man as the father of a child. It establishes the father’s rights and responsibilities towards the child, including custody and visitation. Once paternity is established, a father gains legal standing to participate in important decisions regarding the child’s upbringing and welfare. 
This process can be achieved through voluntary acknowledgment, court orders, or genetic testing to confirm biological parentage. Moreover, paternity creates a special bond between a father and child, ensuring that the father can play a meaningful role in the child’s life and contribute to their healthy growth and development.

What Happens After Paternity is Established? 

After establishing paternity, non-married fathers can petition the court for custody and visitation rights. Many factors will be considered, including the child’s best interests, the father’s involvement in the child’s life, and the ability to provide a stable environment. Non-married fathers may seek joint custody, where both parents share decision-making or visitation rights to maintain a meaningful relationship with their child.

Contact Our Mt. Prospect, IL Paternity Lawyer 

For non-married fathers, seeking custody and visitation rights, establishing paternity, seeking legal counsel, advocating for parental interests, and building a positive relationship with the child are crucial steps in the legal process. Once a non-married father understands the importance of paternity, only then can they navigate the process with the care and diligence to ensure the process is successful. Contact the Rolling Meadows, IL paternity attorney with The Law Office of Nicholas W. Richardson, P.C. for a skilled attorney who will always have your interests at heart. Call 847.873.6741 for a complimentary consultation today.