Fathers’ Rights/Family Law
At Zimmerman & Associates, our Gwinnett County family law attorneys aggressively defend the rights of fathers in paternity and child custody proceedings.
Fathers play an important role in their children’s lives. Unfortunately, when parents are divorced or unmarried, the rights of fathers are often overlooked and unprotected. At Zimmerman & Associates, we act as a strong legal advocate for fathers seeking to protect their parental rights. As experienced Gwinnett County family law attorneys, we provide the aggressive legal representation needed to protect fathers in paternity cases and in child custody and support proceedings.
Fathers’ Rights in Georgia
Under the Georgia Code, fathers have few legal protections when it comes to their children. In cases in which a couple is unmarried and no longer living together, the mother has inherent rights and is the only one legally entitled to custody. Fathers typically have to prove paternity and file a legitimation petition in order to be granted any type of legal visitation with their children. In cases of divorce, where paternity is presumed, fathers can still face an uphill battle when it comes to being included in their children’s lives.
In these situations, Zimmerman & Associates acts as a strong legal advocate on your side. Our Norcross family law attorneys aggressively defend the rights of fathers to be a part of their children’s lives. Cases we represent typically include:
- Divorce cases in which fathers are seeking custody or visitation;
- Situations in which couples are unmarried and paternity must be established;
- Custody and support proceedings that arise out of paternity cases;
- Cases in which the mother or the child’s other primary caregivers are flagrantly violating the father’s rights.
Defending and Protecting Your Rights as a Father
Protecting the rights of fathers and ensuring they have regular access to their children is a top priority at Zimmerman & Associates. Our Gwinnett County family law attorneys take the aggressive legal actions that are often required in these cases. Ways in which we can help you include:
Cases Involving Unmarried Fathers
Paternity in Georgia may be established through the Department of Human Services (DHS) or through a separate petition filed through the Gwinnett County courts. Even if you have a mutual agreement with the mother, proving paternity and having your name on the birth certificate is important to protecting your rights and your relationship with your child.
Once paternity is established, you may file a petition for legitimation. This ensures important rights your child has are protected, such as being able to inherit from your estate.
Cases Involving Divorce
In divorce proceedings, you need an attorney experienced in fathers’ rights to ensure that you are protected. At Zimmerman & Associates, we can negotiate the best possible agreements regarding parenting plans while ensuring any child support amounts ordered are fair and within your budget.
Contact Our Gwinnett County Family Law Attorneys Today
When it comes to protecting your children and your rights as a father, get the aggressive legal representation you need from Zimmerman & Associates. Call or contact our Norcross family law attorneys to request a consultation today.