Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

child support when father is a minor
I'm a deputy clerk in Clay County and recently we had a case that brought up a lot of questions as to the rights of minors. The child in question is 16 years old and the father of a 4 month child. The father and mother are not married. The mother is 18 and has taken the child away from the father and refuses to allow him to see his child. In order to establish visitation a paternity petition will need to be filed with the court. I am wondering since he is a minor, will he have to have a guardian appointed to act on his behalf in this case or can his natural parents file on his behalf without being appointed as guardian(s)? Also, as far as child support is concerned, can the court order a minor to pay child support?

Asked on 2/27/09, 1:24 pm

Brent Rose The Orsini & Rose Law Firm

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Re: child support when father is a minor

No law prevents a minor from suing for paternity in his own name. No law immunizes a child from paying child support. In fact, it's not uncommon.

Answered on 2/27/09, 1:45 pm

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