Should you establish paternity?
Fathers in Florida must consider matters of paternity when your child is born. Married fathers have an easier time. The state considers them the father of the child. All they need to do is sign the birth certificate.
For unmarried fathers, the process is a little more complex. You must sign paperwork and jump through a few legal hoops for the same rights. You may ask yourself if it is even worth it. Today we will take a look at the possible answer to that question.
Why establish paternity?
The National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse looks at reasons to establish paternity. The primary reason is, of course, involvement in your child’s life. If you want any involvement in their life, establishing paternity is crucial.
Why is this? If you do not establish paternity, the child’s mother is under no obligation to involve you in their life. For example, they do not have to inform you if they decide to move out of the city or state. If they do move, they do not need to tell you their new location. You could easily lose contact with your own child.
What you cannot do without paternity
You also have no say in important matters in your child’s life. Though you can voice opinions to the child’s mother, she is under no obligation to listen. Some of the matters you may lack consultation in include:
- Their religion
- Medical decisions related to their health, including vaccinations
- The schools they attend
- Extracurricular activities they partake in
If you want a say in how to raise your child, establishing paternity is of utmost importance.
