Legal Question in Family Law in Illinois

Child Custody

I was with my girlfriend for 7 years and we have a 5 year old daughter. We never married. Now we are split and she has filed for full custody of our daughter. Do I have the right to joint custody with not ever being married to her?


Asked on 10/11/07, 4:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Amil Alkass LAVELLE LAW, LTD

Re: Child Custody

As the natural father of the you would have the "right" to seek joint custody. However, you must first be deemed to be the "legal" father of the child, in other words, there has to be a determination of paternity established by the court or by voluntarily acknowledging paternity. It is only after paternity has been established can you petition the court for custody.

Hope this helps. Feel free to e-mail me with any questions or clarification at [email protected]. Good luck!

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Answered on 10/11/07, 4:35 pm


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