Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania
custody, child support
I am currently 6 months pregnant and have been doing everything by myself with the emotional support of my parents and friends. The father has been out of the picture for the last 2 months and before that wasn't involved in the pregnancy other than the first ultrasound around the 2nd month. He recently contacted me to say he wants to be there for the baby when he's born but i'm afraid that he'll come and go as he pleases with no real system for the child. Is there anything I can do? Also, if he wants to have visitation or custody is he liable for any of the prenatal care that was necessary for the pregnancy? If the baby lives with me what would he be responsible for?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: custody, child support
The important thing is ti establish custody as soon as practical once the child is born. If the child is with you he will be responsible for providing support. If he is immature then this can be addressed in determining his visitation rights which may include taking parenting courses or otherwise showing he is responsible to be around a young infant. If you would like to speak further about this matter you may contact my office.
Re: custody, child support
He is responsible for child support, and potentially health insurance. I have even seen where dad has been on the hook for the hospital bill from the child's birth.
As to custody the best way is to be pro active and file a custody petition to establish what custody rights everyone has.
Id you have any questions feel free to contact me. The initial consultation is free.
{John}
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Asked 3/13/08, 11:09 am in United States Pennsylvania Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption