Legal Question in Family Law in Missouri

Re: Visitation

You really do not provide enough information in your post, but from the wording I infer that you are not married to the mother of the coming child. If this is so, then you have no legal rights concerning that child. You will not be the legal father when the child is born. You might be able to sign an affidavit of paternity at the time the child is born if the mother consents and signs also, but this will not give you any specific legal rights to visitation. I guess that it is a good thing for the legal profession that so many young people in our society these days choose to make babies without getting married, because your only solution would be to file a lawsuit seeking a Court Order determining you to be the legal father an awarding you whatever custody or visitation rights are appropriate. Of course the Court will also Order you to pay child support. The costs of such a lawsuit can range from around $1500 upwards in most places. If you're in the St. Louis area and wish to take some action, you may call me at the office. Good luck.