Paternity

Paternity Lawyer Serving the Western Chicago Suburbs

Do I have any rights as an unmarried father? What if my girlfriend moves away with my child?

Unmarried fathers and mothers have the same parental rights as married couples. In order to enforce your rights, you must first establish paternity of your child. In Illinois, this is done with a DNA test if there is any question of parentage.

As a family law attorney with more than 28 years of experience in the western Chicago suburbs, I can advise you about issues such as child support, child custody, visitation and relocation.

I offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case.

The Rights of Unmarried Parents

• Mothers usually file paternity cases in order to receive child support and help with childcare expenses. Fathers typically do so after the mother has refused to allow them contact with the children.
• In the past, it used to be a forgone conclusion that the mother would have custody of children if the parties never married. It is common now for fathers to seek joint or sole custody. The courts consider what is in the child's best interest.
• A paternity case deals with many of the same issues as divorce. Unmarried parents deal with issues such as child support, day care expenses, health coverage, and child custody and visitation.
• If the parents do not agree on a parenting plan, the court will refer them to mediation.

What if My Ex-Girlfriend Moves Away?

Once you have established your parental rights, your ex-girlfriend or ex-boyfriend can't remove your child from Illinois without permission from you or a court. I can represent mothers or fathers in removal hearings.

Free Consultation With an Experienced Lawyer

For a free initial consultation about your paternity case, contact me, attorney Terry Fawell. From my office in Wheaton, I serve clients in DuPage, Kane and Will counties.