Paternity

If a child is born to unmarried parents in the State of Florida, the mother is considered the child's natural guardian, however the father may not have any paternal rights until they are established by filing a case for paternity. Recent changes to Florida Law, in July 2023 make it easier for fathers to establish paternity. If both parents sign a voluntary acknowledgement of paternity, then paternity can be established without a court action, provided the acknowledgement is properly executed.

After establishing paternal rights, an unmarried father can establish time sharing and parental responsibility rights.

Florida’s recent law change means that the courts now start with the rebuttable presumption that equal timesharing is in the best interests of the child.

Contact Cody Law to discuss what steps can be taken to establish parental rights for the unwed father.