I have been asked what rights each parent has if the child is born out of wedlock.

Once upon a time it was unheard of to have children when a couple was not married. It was frowned upon; it was considered to be a “sin.” It was not that long ago when babies followed marriage and couples would marry upon discovery that the woman was pregnant.

Today is different. Society has changed. Today we have the largest number of unwed parents in our history, including many celebrities, such as Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. Although society has accepted this trend, the law has not. It may not affect multi-millionaire unwed celebrity parents, but it does have an adverse effect on the average unwed parent.

It used to be when a girl got pregnant, the dad would call for a “shotgun” wedding – insist that the boy marry his daughter or else. Today, very few know what that expression means, let alone attend one.

Things have changed in society – many individuals are putting off marriage until a later date or not considering it at all. Living together without a marriage license seems to be ‘in’ these days. There are still couples committed to each other, but not in marriage.

Having a child out of wedlock can present legal ramifications, the most important being financial obligations and custody issues.

Having a child presents financial issues, such as child support, childcare, medical insurance. This does not only apply to the mother, but also to the father, especially when the couple brings a child into this world but they are not married – maybe they’re living together, maybe they’re not.

In the case of a couple that isn’t totally committed to each other, the father might be unwilling to pay child support; maybe he’s not sure the child is his. The paternity must first be established.

When a relationship doesn’t work out, the couple must go to court to establish custody, both legal and physical. This may cause all sorts of disputes, such as the lifestyle of one or both parents, the ability of each parent to care for the child. California courts apply the same criteria for custody disputes between unmarried parents as they do with married, but divorcing parents. The best interests of the child are the number one priority of the court.

Parentage cases can lead to expensive battles between the parents. If you are choosing to have a child out of wedlock to avoid financial or legal battles – think again.

If you have questions about raising a child out of wedlock, contact the Family Law offices of Holstrom, Block & Parke because out attorneys are dedicated to protecting your parental rights while helping you make decisions that are in the best interests of your child.

Call today for a free phone consultation: we have offices in Riverside, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties.

Having a child without the benefits of marriage can be somewhat stressful if the couple is not getting along.

Parental rights can be somewhat challenging for an unmarried couple – especially the father. However, if you are the father, you have legal rights. The legal help from a Family Law attorney is essential to establish your parental rights.

When a child is born to a married couple the father is automatically presumed to be the father. This is not the case for a couple that is not married – paternity must be established in order for the father to be granted custody and/or visitation rights.

California law states that paternity must be established before the father receives rights and responsibilities involving his child. You will have to arrange to have a DNA test done.

As an unmarried father, you have the right to visitation with your child. You and the mother can either determine those rights on your own or a court can do so for you. Generally, you will not be given primary custody unless the mother is proven to be unfit. However, if both parents are playing an active and stable role in the child’s life, joint custody is an option.

When determining custody arrangements, the court looks at several factors, including each parent’s ability to provide for the child, their established lifestyles. The court believes that the child needs the love and attention of both parents.

If you believe you are the father of a child born out of wedlock, you should contact an experienced family lawyer. Contact the Rancho Cucamonga Family Law offices of Holstrom, Block & Parke to find out how to make a claim to your child and assert your rights as a parent.

Are you a single parent? Do you feel overwhelmed, tired all the time, and a tad under-appreciated If you answered, “yes,” not to worry – you’re not alone.

Parenting, especially without a partner, is never easy. There is no training or instruction manual to buy. A single parent has no one to share the joys and tears with. The responsibilities fall on one set of shoulders: yours. It is up to you to teach your child right from wrong, how to stay safe, and how to lead a happy, healthy, and productive life, not to mention providing for your child.

Parenting is hard; it could be painful and unrewarding at times. What about when your teenage daughter yells, “I hate you; you’re mean,” because you told her she couldn’t stay out past 10:00 p.m.? This is when you must be strong in order to handle the position of both mother and father.

I know you hope your children will have lots of laughter and fewer tears while growing up – it’s only natural. So, when you’re having a bad moment, take a minute to remind yourself of the laughter. Regardless of how hopeless a situation may seem, keep in mind that your children knows you love them.

When your children are young, they may not understand the act of discipline, but when they grow up, they will see the reasoning behind the lessons you taught and the commitment you gave them. It is at this time that you will know that you contributed to your children’s successes by being a responsible single parent.

Just because you’re a single parent doesn’t mean you should give up hope. You are a single parent and you are strong.

If you are having family issues and need the advice of an experienced Rancho Cucamonga Family Law attorneys, contact one of our knowledgeable attorneys Holstrom, Block Parke for the help and advice you need.