In custody cases, the best interests of the child should govern, not the gender of a parent. Fathers are entitled to maintain strong relationships with their children after a divorce. With more than 25 years of experience, Catherine H. Voit understands the challenges fathers face and works hard to protect their rights. You can rely on her to resolve your family dispute fairly, while keeping your child’s best interest at the forefront.
Under Pennsylvania law, when a child is born to an unmarried woman, there is no legal relationship automatically created between the father and the child. To establish paternity, an unwed father can file an acknowledgement of paternity. If the mother consents, the father is granted the same parental rights and responsibilities that he would have if he and the mother were married.
If the mother does not agree, a father may still file the acknowledgment. It will not establish any parental rights, but it will entitle you to notice of any future proceedings to terminate parental rights. Fathers seeking parental rights without the consent of the mother can also ask the court to establish paternity by filing a Petition to Determine Paternity. Once paternity is established, a father enjoys all of the privileges and duties of parenthood, including child custody and child support.
Fathers and mothers enjoy the same rights and responsibilities relating to their children under Pennsylvania law, including:
Fathers have the right to be an integral part of their children’s lives. If you are facing a paternity dispute or child custody issue, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. Catherine H. Voit is a seasoned mediator and litigator. While she always takes a problem-solving approach to family law issues involving fathers’ and grandparents’ rights, she is a zealous courtroom advocate when the situation warrants.
The gender of a parent does not make a difference in the eyes of the law. Catherine H. Voit helps fathers establish and enforce their parental rights. To discuss your case, call Catherine today at 484-881-3185 or contact her online. Catherine’s office is in West Chester and has plenty of parking.