Florida Parental Rights for Fathers

by Anonymous from Florida

Parental Rights for Fathers: I am the father of a 5 year old little girl. I have been providing for her financially and up until Sunday was able to visit/take with her when ever I wanted. Due to a personal disagreement with the mother she is refusing to let me see her and has threatened to "never let me see her again".



What are my rights as a father in this case and what do I need to do in order to ensure that I will be allowed to at least visit with my child. I also fear that the mother is unfit to take care of my daughter and would like to know how I can apply for custody. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Answer to Florida Child Custody Question

Dear Anonymous,

If you are an unmarried father and custody/visitation has not been previously established by court order, then you will need to file a Petition to Determine Paternity and for Related Relief Form 12.983(a) and the required forms the instructions for this petition lists.

Many people do not realize that just because child support has been ordered by a court, your parental rights (visitation, custody, etc..) are not fully established.

This is what the petition for paternity process is for. You will be able to file Pro Se (representing yourself) with this form. Have a look at our Form 12.983(a) web-powered instructions page.

Your concern for the safety of your child and the mother's ability to care for him should prompt you to at least seek some legal advice before appearing in court. There are many free and low cost legal resources in the state of Florida. See our Florida Legal Resources page for more information.
Notice: We provide these answers to the general public and our website visitors as a means to further their online legal research. These answers are merely suggestions and should not be regarded as legal advice.

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Our Self Help Guide, Modifying Custody & Visitation in Florida, helps you navigate the court process and procedures once you file your documents with easy to follow checklists, links to websites, important addresses & phone numbers, and much more. Modifying Custody & Visitation In Florida

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