Bellevue Father’s Rights Lawyer

If you are involved in a custody dispute, a Bellevue father’s rights lawyer at Twyford Law Office could help. There is a common misconception that mothers have exclusive rights related to children, but in reality, both parents are treated equally under the law. Let our skilled family law attorneys serve as your advocate. 

The unmarried father of a minor child is not automatically granted custody or visitation rights. To ensure parenting time or access to their children’s medical histories, a father will need to legally establish paternity. Only at that point will they be entitled to petition the court for these rights. 

Establishing Paternity

There are two ways that a Bellevue father’s rights attorney can help establish paternity under Washington state law. The process can be either voluntary or non-voluntary. The way these cases play out can vary depending on the relationship between the two parties. The more contentious the situation, the more important the support of experienced legal counsel can be. 

As the name suggests, voluntary paternity involves both parties mutually agreeing to the identity of the father. This is often done at the hospital shortly after birth by both parents signing an affidavit. There is even a presumption of paternity for the mother’s husband if they were married at the time the child was born. 

Unfortunately, not every custody dispute is resolved amicably. Some purported fathers will not believe the child is theirs. Mothers might refuse to take any part in voluntary paternity proceedings if the parties are in conflict. 

In this scenario, the only option is for one of the parties to file a paternity action in state court. In these cases, the judge will order a paternity test to be conducted. If the results of the test reflect that the individual is the biological father, the court will grant the petition and issue an order declaring paternity. 

What Are a Father’s Rights and Responsibilities?

After a lawyer has established paternity, certain rights and responsibilities are immediately enforceable. It is important to note that while the obligations of being a parent are immediate, many of the rights must be awarded by a judge. For example, fathers must pay child support as soon as they are legally recognized. There are also responsibilities related to covering children with health insurance when it is provided by an employer. That is not the case for visitation or custody rights.

In order to gain access to the child, the father must petition the court. The judge will decide whether parenting time or taking part in important decisions regarding the child’s wellbeing is in their best interest. As soon as paternity is formalized, the father is entitled to receive notice of any pending adoption proceedings. 

Enforcing these rights starts with having the support of strong legal counsel. A dedicated father’s rights lawyer could ensure fair treatment during Bellevue court proceedings when determining child custody or support. 

Talk to a Father’s Rights Lawyer in Bellevue Today

As a father, you deserve the opportunity to make your case for why you should be involved in your child(ren)’s life. Formally establishing paternity is the first step in that process. While this process can take time, having the support of a Bellevue father’s rights lawyer could improve your chances of success. Reach out as soon as possible for a confidential legal consultation with one of our seasoned legal professionals at Twyford Law Office.