On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in fathers’ rights on Friday, May 8, 2020.
If you are the father of a child and you want to gain custody, you will have a high chance of being able to do so. Child custody courts always make decisions that are in the best interests of the child involved. They encourage both parents to have a strong relationship with their child, and they would only deny a parent visitation rights if it’s believed that the parent poses a risk to the child.
Before filing for custody as a father, you will need to ensure that you are legally acknowledged as the father. This is the first and perhaps the most important aspect of any child custody case.
How do I know if I’m legally acknowledged as the father?
If you were married to the other parent when the child was born, or if you were named on the birth certificate, you will already be legally acknowledged as the father of the child.
If you were not married at the time and not named on the birth certificate, you will need to request that the mother voluntarily acknowledge that you are the father. If she does this, you can then begin the process of filing for custody.
If the mother believes that you are not the father or refuses to acknowledge it, you may then have to go through the courts to request a DNA test. If the courts rule in your favor, you will be able to gain proof of paternity in this way.
If you are struggling to establish paternity in Illinois and you want to be a part of your child’s life, you must take action to assert your rights as a father.
