Legal Question in Family Law in Florida
Hello, I have my daughter Full Time, and support her completely, her father does not pay child support, we have not completed a paternity test, we never married nor have we gone to court for custodial rights. I would like to relocate, what do I have to do to ensure I do things according to the law?
2 Answers from Attorneys
First, is he the father? If you know he is, the paternity test isn't relevant unless he'll deny he is the father. If he denies he is the father, you can move.
Next, assuming you both agree he is the father, some judges say that, since there is no court order establishing father's rights, you can go ahead and leave. However, most judges say you have to follow the statutory procedure for relocation of children. This is a somewhat technical procedure that you should not do on your own, since making even a small mistake could delay or cost you your move. You should speak with a family law attorney to get assistance with following the relocation procedure.
Brent Rose
You will need court permission to relocate.