Legal Question in Family Law in Ohio

Teen Parent Rights

My step son and his girlfriend just had a baby. Problem: He is 18 (just turned) and she is turning 18 on March 22, 2009. They live with her parents. They live in Ohio and want to move to Kansas because he has a guaranteed job (with his dad's company-$600 weekly take home) and a place of their own. The parents won't let them move because she is a minor. Claim they will get him for abandonment if he comes here without them (to send money home) and kidnapping if he takes her across state lines. Her parents are on assistance and don't help with money matters either. What are their rights???


Asked on 11/18/08, 5:46 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Rian Ankerholz Ankerholz and Smith

Re: Teen Parent Rights

There are really too many issues in your question to address in this forum. The main thing is that the child's needs must be met. A father does not abandon a child by moving out of state to get a good job if he provides financial support. The father should consider filing a paternity action to establish parenting rights. A child support order will also be established unless the parents are still residing together. Contact an experienced family law attorney.

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Answered on 11/19/08, 1:01 pm
Nancy Fioritto Patete Nancy Fioritto Patete, Esq.

Re: Teen Parent Rights

If the his child's mother is in agreement, he can try to make this change by first establishing paternity through the courts and setting up child support and a parenting plan. Since this plan is being disputed by the mother's parents, your stepson should seek legal counsel.

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Answered on 11/19/08, 3:27 pm


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