Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland

Hi my name is Angela . I was given your email address and phone number by a friend because I need some legal advice . My name is the only name on my daughter's birth certificate , so is there ANY way possible that her father has ANY legal right over her ? There has been no DNA test and his name is not on anything . However , I am going out of state in April and he said that the only way I will get out of state is if I get through him . So what I need to know is , is there any way he could legally stop me ? Also, I need to know if there is any way that ANYONE could legally come and take my child without my knowing . I would really appreciate a reply to this email as soon as is convenient for you . Thank you very much .


Asked on 1/27/10, 4:07 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Sher Wagshal and Sher

Since your daughter was born out of wedlock, the bio father would have to go to court to have his paternity legally established before he would acquire any rights, such as shared custody or visitation. If he did that, you would be entitled to make him start paying child support through the court system, and through his job if he's employed. Anyone that would take your child without your permission could be charged with child abduction.

If you are truly concerned about him trying to do this, I suggest you have an attorney write him a strong letter warning him of the consequences of such actions.

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Answered on 2/02/10, 6:34 am


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