I am not married to the mother of my daughter; do I still have to pay child support?
What a silly question. Parents who are unmarried are still parents. You are expected to provide the basic needs for your daughter, such as food, clothing, shelter, medical care and day-to-day living expenses. It doesn’t matter if you’re married or not.
In addition to your obligations as a dad, you have rights to make decisions for your child, including education, religious, medical and others.
However, if you have a doubt that this is your daughter, you need to establish legal paternity by taking a DNA test. Once paternity has been established, you must pay child support and you can request visitation rights. You also have the option of terminating your parental rights if you choose to. By terminating your rights, you end the obligation for child support, especially if the mother has married.
The court always looks for the best interests of the child. Your relationship with your child is of paramount importance to you. If you have just learned that you are a father and you’re not sure how to proceed, it is important that you seek the help of a knowledgeable Orange County family lawyer.
Call the family law offices of Amy M. Montes. We understand that you want someone there to help you make sure that your relationship with your child becomes secure. We know how to advocate for you and assert your parental rights so that the best interests of your daughter are served.
