When it comes to child custody in Louisiana, the rights and procedures for unmarried parents differ significantly from those of married couples. At Taylor and McDowell Law, our seasoned attorneys are committed to guiding you through these complex family law matters with empathy and understanding.
Child Custody for Unmarried Fathers
The most notable difference for unmarried parents in Louisiana revolves around child custody. Unlike married couples, where parenting rights are equally vested from birth, for unmarried parents, the mother initially holds all the rights. Unmarried fathers initially have no legal claim to custody or visitation.
However, there's hope. Establishing paternity is the first crucial step in fighting for your parental rights. Paternity can be acknowledged in various ways, including as a putative, alleged, acknowledged, adjudicated, or presumed father. Each type of paternity has different legal implications and processes.
If paternity was not established at birth, a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity form is available. It's essential to understand that until paternity is legally determined, fathers have no legal standing in custody or decision-making for the child.
The Rights of Unmarried Mothers
From the moment of birth, unmarried mothers in Louisiana have immediate rights over their children. These rights include decisions about education, healthcare, and relocation. For unmarried fathers, these rights remain inaccessible until paternity is legally established.
Child Support: A Separate Issue
Child support is a pivotal aspect of paternity and custody. In Louisiana, noncustodial parents are obliged to pay child support until the child graduates high school or turns 19. Establishing paternity is vital for pursuing child support, but it's important to note that child support doesn't automatically grant custody or visitation rights.
Seeking Legal Assistance: Your Next Step
Child custody issues are often emotionally charged and legally complex, especially for unmarried parents. Whether you're grappling with paternity issues, child support, or custody disputes, the right time to seek legal advice is now. If your case involves cross-state or international elements, the complexity only increases.
Taylor and McDowell Law offers compassionate legal assistance to help you navigate these challenges. Our attorneys are well-versed in Louisiana family law and can guide you through each step, from establishing paternity to advocating for your rights in court.
Ready to Discuss Your Case?
If you're facing child custody challenges as an unmarried parent in Louisiana, don't navigate this journey alone. Contact Taylor and McDowell Law at 985-359-9100 for an initial consultation and let our experienced attorneys provide the support and guidance you need.
