Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland

What rights do I have as a Father

I am in my early 30's. Approximately 14 yrs. ago my ex g/f had a little boy she adamantly stated was not mine. Recently, she contacted me using ''Classmates.com''. We'd exchanged numbers, etc. During the course of our multiple conversations, she'd finally admitted he was mine and she couldn't believe she'd told me as she thought she'd be taking that to her grave. I've seen him and believe there is some resemblence. I've advised her that I am interested in establishing a relationship with him. Originally, she was fine with it. However, her attitude has since changed since I stated I would want to get Joint Custody of him. She's made it clear that I will NOT be visiting him outside her house/presence because she doesn't want him to have any chance at spending time around my mother; her main reason for hiding him from me in the first place. Another man's name was placed on the birth certificate when he was born. What rights do I have as the paternal father? Can she be forced to adhere to a blood test? What can/should I do to get the ball rolling?


Asked on 2/12/06, 2:52 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Sher Wagshal and Sher

Re: What rights do I have as a Father

You can file a petition to establish paternity in the state where the child lives. You can ask for joint custody, but after 14 years it would probably make more sense to start by asking for visitation rights. There's no reason why visitation should be restricted as the mother suggests. Of course, the child doesn't know you, so it will take some time to establish a relationship with him. If she admits in court that he's really your child, blood/dna tests won't be necessary.

Once paternity is legally determined by the court, you'll be obligated to support the child until he reaches the age of emancipation as determined by the laws of the state of his residence (usually 18, but in MD could be 19 if he's still in high school when he turns 18).

If you're serious about this, contact an experienced family lawyer in the area where the child lives for further advice.

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Answered on 2/13/06, 10:26 am


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