Legal Question in Family Law in New York

Re: what rights does a man who negleted a child for 2 years have?

Unfortunately, biology does give the father legal rights, and obligations. If he is the father, you can get child support from him. The court may also give him visitation.

I would suggest that you and the person who has acted as the father go in immediately, and petition for joint custody. You will also need an attorney, in this complex situation. Find someone local who can help you out. If you can't afford an attorney, you can ask the court for assigned counsel, if you meet the income requirements.

Re: what rights does a man who negleted a child for 2 years have?

Q. Does my sons attachment to my ex have any weight in the situation?

A. Yes. It has a great deal of weight. In New York the Courts look toward the best interest of the child to determine paternity rights. If the child believed for the past two years that another man was his father, and if there was little to no contact with the individual claiming paternity, you can make a valid argument that the petitioner is now "estopped" from seeking a paternity test.

Q. Would I be wrong to file rape charges now that i should have filed previously?

A. That question should be directed to your local District Attorney's office. Rape is a criminal act.

Q. Does a man who decides two years after a childs birth that he wants to prove paternity and be involed really have grounds?

A. Yes. He has grounds to bring a petition.

Mike.