CLICK HERE FOR A CONSULTATION Laurence J. Brock is a California State Bar Certified Family Law Specialist
Pomona Child Custody for Unmarried Parents Lawyer
Helping Unmarried Parents Navigate Custody & Support Issues
Child custody and support disputes can be especially complex for unmarried parents in Pomona. Unlike married couples who divorce, unmarried mothers and fathers must take additional legal steps to establish paternity, determine custody and visitation, and ensure child support obligations are met. Without proper legal guidance, one parent may struggle to obtain their parental rights, which can impact the child’s best interests.
At The Law Office of Laurence J. Brock, we provide experienced legal assistance to unmarried parents facing custody disputes. Whether you need to establish paternity, seek full custody, or negotiate a child support agreement, our family law attorneys are here to help.
Understanding Custody and Visitation for Unmarried Parents
In California, child custody laws apply to both married and unmarried parents, but there are key differences in how custody is determined. For unmarried mothers, legal custody is automatically granted at birth. Unmarried fathers, however, must establish paternity before they can seek custody or visitation rights.
How to Establish Paternity
Paternity must be legally established before a father can obtain custody rights or be required to make child support payments. This can be done in one of two ways:
- Voluntary Declaration of Paternity – If both parents agree on paternity, they can sign a legal form at the hospital or later at a government office.
- Court-Ordered Paternity Testing – If paternity is disputed, the court may require a DNA test to determine biological parentage.
Establishing paternity provides legal rights and responsibilities, including custody, visitation, and financial support. If you are an unmarried father seeking custody, we can assist you in filing the necessary legal documents.
Child Custody and Visitation Arrangements
California courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining custody and visitation. Custody can be awarded as:
- Joint custody – Both parents share legal and/or physical custody.
- Sole custody – One parent has full custody while the other may have visitation rights.
- Visitation rights – The noncustodial parent is granted scheduled time with the child.
If domestic violence, substance abuse, or other serious issues are involved, the court may limit visitation or require supervised visits. Our family law attorneys help unmarried parents navigate custody disputes and advocate for fair court orders.
Child Support Obligations for Unmarried Parents
Both parents are financially responsible for their child, regardless of marital status. After paternity is established, the court may issue child support orders based on:
- Each parent’s income and ability to provide support
- The time each parent spends with the child
- The child’s healthcare, education, and other needs
Failure to make child support payments can lead to legal consequences, including wage garnishment or license suspension. We assist clients in negotiating child support agreements, modifying existing orders, and enforcing court-mandated payments.
Legal Assistance for Custody and Paternity Disputes
Unmarried parents may face challenges in proving paternity, securing custody, or enforcing child support agreements. Whether you are seeking full custody, establishing parental rights, or modifying an existing order, our experienced paternity lawyers can help.
Why Choose Our Family Law Attorneys?
- Extensive experience in paternity, custody, and support cases
- Skilled in negotiation and litigation for complex disputes
- Committed to protecting your rights and your child’s best interests
Learn more about how a Pomona Child Custody for Unmarried Parents Lawyer can support your case. Call The Law Office of Laurence J. Brock at (909) 466-7661 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward resolution and peace of mind.
FAQs
How does an unmarried father get custody in California?
An unmarried father must first establish paternity through a voluntary declaration or a court-ordered DNA test. Once paternity is established, he can petition for custody and visitation rights.
Can an unmarried mother deny visitation to the father?
If the father has not legally established paternity, the mother has sole custody and can deny visitation. However, once paternity is established, the father has the right to seek custody or visitation.
How is child support calculated for unmarried parents?
Child support is based on California’s guidelines, considering both parents’ incomes, custody arrangements, and the child’s needs. The court issues orders to ensure financial support is provided.
What if the father refuses to pay child support?
If a father refuses to make child support payments, the court can enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other legal actions.
Can a child support order be modified?
Yes. If there is a significant change in either parent’s financial situation, custody arrangement, or the child’s needs, a parent can request a modification of the existing court order.
