Legal Question in Family Law in Georgia

Paternity Acknowledgement Form and Father's Rights

My son voluntarily signed the paternity acknowledgement form at the hospital. Why does he have to go to court and

pay to have the child's name changed and to get visitation?

We thought if he signed then the child automatically was given his last name. They will let him see the child only at their house at their convenience. We thought visitation meant the child could come to his house.

I don't see the point of signing the paternity acknowledgement form if it does nothing for him or the child.

Thank You for your time,

Concerned Mom/GMom in GA


Asked on 10/20/04, 4:32 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Glenn M. Lyon, Esq. MacGREGOR LYON, LLC, Business Attorneys

Re: Paternity Acknowledgement Form and Father's Rights

The child's name is determined at birth by the parents when the birth certificate is filled out. I can't say why a certain name was put on the Certificate. Visitation means whatever the judge deciding the case determines. Being declare the parent does not mean you automatically get visitation rights. However; it will mean the child is officially recognized as your son's child, e.g. the child would inherit from your son if your son died without a will.

If you would like to discuss any issues further, please feel free to contact my office. My contact information is below. Thank you.

The foregoing is general information only, not specific legal advice. No attorney/client relation has been created or should be implied.

Glenn M. Lyon, Esq

MacGregor Lyon, LLC

Promenade II

1230 Peachtree Street NE

Suite 1900

Atlanta Georgia 30309

Phone 404.942.3545

Fax 404.795.0993

[email protected]

www.macgregorlyon.com

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Answered on 10/20/04, 4:43 pm


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