Non-Married Parents

When an unmarried couple has a child together, most do not consider the legal issues that may arise until the time when their relationship deteriorates or ends. A couple then faces the unknown issues of:

• Paternity
• Parental Rights and Responsibilities
• Child Support
• Past Care Expenses

Establishing Paternity

In Ohio, an unmarried mother is automatically the custodial parent. This is because establishing a mother's maternity is much easier than a father's paternity.

Either parent may want to establish paternity. Perhaps you are the mother of a child who needs to establish paternity to receive child support. Or you may be a father who wants to establish paternity to assert your rights and obtain parenting time. It may be important for the child to be covered by a parent's health insurance or to receive an inheritance. Establishing paternity is the first step. No matter the reason, you should seek an experienced advocate for you and your child.

Parental Rights and Responsibilities

At birth, an unmarried mother is the sole residential parent and legal custodian of a child. The mother has the right to make all the decisions for the child. Either parent can petition the court for an allocation of parental rights and responsibilities. The court will then determine the rights of both parents and allocate the decision-making authority for the child, unless the parents can reach an agreement.

Child Support

The residential parent may wish to establish a child support order or attempt to collect on child support that the other parent owes and has not paid. There are a couple of options available. You should speak with an experienced attorney to determine which option best fits your needs.

At The Law Offices of LeeDaun C. Williams, we are experienced in representing both mothers and fathers on issues arising from unmarried parentage. Contact our law offices today today for a consultation and see how we can help you resolve your issues in the best interests of you and your child.