Legal Question in Family Law in Illinois

A 25-year-old mother dies and her 9 year-old's father has never been involved because he didn't know he had a child; his name however is on the birth certificate. The maternal grandparents of the child in question are actively involved in her life and are unsure if they should try to track down her father. If they track down the father what would be his rights and responsibilities if he decides to raise his child?


Asked on 2/10/12, 11:31 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Sue Roberts-Kurpis, Esq. Law Office of Sue Roberts-Kurpis

You need to talk to a lawyer immediately. This child's father has been deceived and lied to since her birth and now you are trying to hedge your bets before notifying the father yourselves. Just what do you think this little girl is going think of you when she is older and finds out that you kept her from her father? Certainly, he may decide that he doesn't want to be involved with her at this late date but that is his decision to make. You should contact an attorney who can then locate the father and try and work out an agreement between you for the benefit of your granddaughter. A the very least he would be required to support her and be able to have visitation. Not notifying him can have some very serious legal consequences for you and your husband as well as the child if you do not act immediately to notify the father.

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Answered on 2/10/12, 7:07 pm


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