Fresno Fathers’ Rights Lawyer

Protecting Men in Family Law Matters

Family issues can be difficult to face, especially as a father. Courts are notorious for siding with mothers and assuming that the father will have less interest in raising the children. However, this is unfair and unhealthy for fathers and their children, who need interaction with both parents.

At The Bains Law Offices, we place a high value on ensuring our clients get adequate time with their children and support raising them. We will stand by your side and be a strong ally fighting for your rights as a father. Call 559-890-1007 today to make an appointment with our talented legal team.

What Are a Father’s Legal Rights?

In California, fathers have the same legal rights as mothers. Regardless of the relationship between the parents, the father retains the right to visit and hold custody of his children. Under California law, parents have an equal opportunity for child custody and visitation.

Along with custody comes the right to help make important decisions in the child’s life. The father may also receive child support from the other parent to help with the financial burden of raising the child if he is the primary custodian of the children. For more help understanding your rights as a father or if you feel your rights are not being respected, please contact The Bains Law Offices right away.

How Do You Establish Paternity?

In some cases, paternity is assumed because the child was born while the two individuals were married. A man may also be assumed to be the father if he was living with the child’s mother for a specific period before the child’s birth and shows commitment to the child’s upbringing.

Other times, a mother may deny that a man is the father, and he may have to prove paternity. Establishing paternity can be as simple as giving a DNA test, but it may be necessary to go to court first to get a paternity order from the judge. Your family law attorney can help you know which process is right for you and then gather evidence to show that you deserve to establish paternity.

Can a Father Get Child Support?

While many people assume that the father will pay child support to the mother, a father can file for child support depending on the circumstances of the case. In California, one parent may be named the primary custodian, meaning they have custody of the child most of the time. If the father is the primary custodian, they have a right to seek child support from the mother.

Child support covers the costs of raising the child, including basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter, medical expenses, and more. Fathers who bear the more significant burden of raising the child have as much right as a mother would in those circumstances. Should the child support go unpaid, the father would be able to bring a suit against the mother in California.

Should You Hire Our Law Firm?

Unfortunately, many families going through divorce suffer when the mother refuses to respect the rights of the father. While courts have sided with mothers in many instances in the past, it is becoming more and more recognized that fathers have equal rights in custody and support for raising their children.

If you need help defending your rights as a father, you need a law firm on your side with the experience and knowledge necessary for a successful outcome in your case. The knowledgeable family lawyer at The Bains Law Offices will listen compassionately to your challenges and offer excellent legal counsel. We understand how difficult family problems can be, and we promise to stand by your side and communicate effectively throughout the legal process so you can be an active participant every step of the way. Please don’t delay contacting us and jeopardizing your precious relationship with your children. Your rights as a father must be protected. Call us at 559-890-1007 to schedule a consultation and get the help you need today!