Paternity Is Not automatic in Florida

If the parents are married when the child is born, both parents have equal rights and responsibilities regarding the child. If the parents are not married, paternity must be established before the father can assert his rights as a parent. Paternity can be established voluntarily by signing a “Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity” form or through a court order. This does not give a father any rights to timeshare with the child. That must be done by a court order.

The court may also consider other relevant factors when determining parental authority, such as the parents’ work schedules, living arrangements, and any special needs of the child.

It is important for parents to keep in mind that the court’s decisions regarding parental authority can have a significant impact on their lives and their child’s life. It is often in the best interests of both the parents and the child to work together to develop a parenting plan that is fair, reasonable, and in the best interests of the child. Parents may want to consider working with a family law attorney or a mediator to help them develop a parenting plan that works for everyone involved.

Contact Rhoden Law Group to speak with one of our experience, family law attorneys about your child custody matter. All phone consultations are courtesy 321-549-3162.