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I am 18 years old and pregnant. The father is about to turn 17. He has not been involved in this pregnancy and does not acc...

I am 18 years old and pregnant. The father is about to turn 17. He has not been involved in this pregnancy and does not acc...

Q: Who is most likely to win custody of a child?

There is no guarantee of who will win custody, as decisions are based on the child's best interests. However, courts often favor the parent who is more involved in the child's life and can provide a stable environment. Both parents have equal rights, but the specifics of each case will determine the outcome.

Q: What happens if a parent is not on the birth certificate?

If a parent is not listed on the birth certificate, they may need to establish paternity to gain legal rights, including custody or visitation. This can involve legal proceedings to confirm their status as the child's father, which may include DNA testing or court orders.

Q: What to say in court to win child custody?

In court, focus on demonstrating your commitment to the child's well-being. Highlight your stability, parenting skills, and willingness to facilitate a relationship with the other parent. Be respectful and provide evidence of your involvement in the child's life, such as attendance at school events or medical appointments.

Full question:

I am 18 years old and pregnant. The father is about to turn 17. He has not been involved in this pregnancy and does not accept responsibility. Once my child is born, the fathers mother says that they are going to get visitation rights. What visitation rights can he recieve since he is still in high school and under the age of 18?

Category: Divorce
Subcategory: Visitation
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Missouri

Answer:

A natural father has rights to visitation, whether or not he is a minor, unless the court orders otherwise.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What rights does a father have during pregnancy?

A father has the right to be informed about the pregnancy and may seek to establish paternity. While he may not have legal rights to make decisions regarding the pregnancy, he can express his wishes and intentions regarding involvement after the child is born. If he wants visitation rights or custody, he will need to take legal steps to establish these rights once the child is born.

Who normally wins custody cases?

Custody decisions are made based on the best interests of the child. Factors include the child's age, the parents' living situations, and their ability to provide for the child's needs. Courts typically favor arrangements that allow for a meaningful relationship with both parents, unless there are concerns about safety or well-being.

What looks bad in a custody case?

Factors that can negatively impact a custody case include evidence of substance abuse, neglect, domestic violence, or instability in living conditions. Additionally, a parent's failure to maintain a relationship with the child or to support the child's relationship with the other parent can also be viewed unfavorably by the court.