Legal Question in Family Law in Alabama

When is the best time to reclaim paternity of a child?

My ex (not married) is pregnat 7months, and I would like to know when is the best time to start preparing to claim the paternity of my child.

Can I ask for the custody of the baby with these bases?

She owes child support of another children; her credit is really bad, collections agencies are calling every time, and she's living with her parents (the baby will not have his space)


Asked on 8/23/09, 1:14 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Mari Morrison Mari Morrison

NOW, is the answer. You need to contact the Alabama Department of Human Resources and obtain a paternity claim form for the Putative Father's Registry. Your failure to do either before the birth of the baby or within 30 days of the birth will result in a legal determination of abandonment. You can attempt to claim custody but it will be a long haul. It will be based on what is the best interest of the child. It will cost you a lot of money as it will extend over a period of time. but at least by seeking paternity with the Putative Father's Registry you have placed yourself where when the child is born you can file with the circuit court to be declared the legal father (paternity) and for custody. If you need assistance, please check out my web site and contact me either by email or by phone.

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Answered on 8/29/09, 3:14 pm


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