Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

Re: pregnant

Are you the father? If you are having intercourse with her and she is not having intercourse with anyone else then you are the father. The two of you could agree to that and you would have the right to see the child along with other rights. You would also have to pay child support. If you are not sure that you are the father then you can be tested before or after a Paternity action is filed. If you wait for her to file an action then she would file a Paternity and you would be required to be tested to determine if you are the father. Therefore, if you are having or had intercourse with her you should find out for sure now, if you are the father. Sincerely, Melody Stickel-Martinez, Esq. (954)966-4140

Re: pregnant

This is a very serious issue. If you were having unprotected sexual intercourse with the woman, you may be the father. It is important that you have a paternity test conducted to determine whether or not this is the case. If you are the father, you may be found responsible for payment of child support according to the legislatively mandated guidelines. In addition, a court may hold you responsible to pay for medical, dental, and child care for the minor child. This may be true even if the woman does not actively seek payment herself. The State of Florida has the right to maintain an action in the name of the mother to recoup monies it pays for various welfare programs from the father.

If you are found to be the father, you do have certain rights. A father has the right to shared parental responsibility and custody. All major decisions regarding the child should be made by both parents. Visition is a fundamental right although the mother may try to thwart your ability to spend time with the child. It is important that you meet with a qualified marital attorney who can review your individual fact pattern and give you competent legal advice.

Scott R. Jay, Esq. (305) 249-8000

Re: pregnant

This is a very serious issue. If you were having unprotected sexual intercourse with the woman, you may be the father. It is important that you have a paternity test conducted to determine whether or not this is the case. If you are the father, you may be found responsible for payment of child support according to the legislatively mandated guidelines. In addition, a court may hold you responsible to pay for medical, dental, and child care for the minor child. This may be true even if the woman does not actively seek payment herself. The State of Florida has the right to maintain an action in the name of the mother to recoup monies it pays for various welfare programs from the father.

If you are found to be the father, you do have certain rights. A father has the right to shared parental responsibility and custody. All major decisions regarding the child should be made by both parents. Visitation is a fundamental right although the mother may try to thwart your ability to spend time with the child. It is important that you meet with a qualified marital attorney who can review your individual fact pattern and give you competent legal advice.

Scott R. Jay, Esq. (305) 249-8000