Motherhood is not an easy job. Mothers are looked upon to fill many roles in their children’s lives: nurturers, protectors, champions, and coaches. When you are a modern mother juggling work and family, a tense relationship with your child’s father may lead to clashes over your children. Fortunately, family law grants you certain rights and protections.
Whether your co-parent is absent, seeking custody, refusing to pay child support, or trying to move your children out of the area, it is important to understand your legal rights and options in these scenarios. To learn more, consult a Frisco mother’s rights lawyer today.
Unless and until the biological father establishes his role, an unmarried mother is legally considered the sole custodian of the child. This means all medical, lifestyle, and educational decisions are up to her. Additionally, the biological father has no right to visitation in this scenario and will not be directed to pay child support until and unless he establishes paternity.
Parents can establish paternity voluntarily if both parties sign an Acknowledgement of Paternity. Mothers who want to establish paternity to compel fathers to contribute to their child’s welfare can file an action with the courts. The judge will then order DNA tests to confirm the relationship, after which the courts will establish custody and visitation. It is important to note that even if a mother does not want anything to do with the biological father, either parent can take action to establish paternity. Unmarried mothers concerned with custody and child support issues should consult with a Frisco mother’s rights attorney to learn more.
Whether the request for custody or child support involves establishing paternity or is a by-product of the divorce, judges do not automatically award custody and child support to mothers.
Each family situation is different, and the judge considers many factors when determining custody. The only constant is what is best for the children. Some factors judges consider include:
Tensions and emotions during divorce and child custody proceedings run high. For best results, a Frisco mother’s rights attorney should be by your side at this time.
While married, both parents are equal custodians of their children, sharing decisions that legally affect their well-being. If the relationship dissolves and the parents file for divorce, they still share joint custody until the divorce is final.
During the divorce, neither mothers nor fathers can pull the children out of school and move away. However, mothers subjected to domestic violence inflicted by a husband can seek a protective order to keep the father away and then ask the court for custody.
We appreciate the strong bond children have with their moms. Our trusted team fights to preserve the rights of unmarried mothers and divorcing mothers alike. If you have questions or concerns, are about to divorce your child’s father, or need to establish the paternity of your child, a Frisco mother’s rights lawyer is here to guide you. Call today.
Our Law Firm’s approach to your case is based on individual circumstances. Whether it is a simple negotiated settlement, or it requires an aggressive approach, we will protect and defend your best interests.
