Father’s rights refer to the legal rights and responsibilities a father has toward his child. In New Jersey, the law sees both parents—mother and father—as equal when it comes to matters like custody, visitation, and child support.
The courts focus on what is best for the child, not on the parent’s gender. This means that if you’re a father in New Jersey, you have the same right to seek custody or visitation as the mother. You also have the right to be involved in important decisions about your child’s education, medical care, and overall well-being.
Understanding your rights as a father is the first step in protecting your relationship with your child.
Why You May Need a Father’s Rights Lawyer
Even though New Jersey law treats both parents equally, some fathers find it difficult to get fair treatment in court. Sometimes, the mother may try to limit your time with the child. In other cases, you may not be listed on the birth certificate or have never been married to the mother.
A father’s rights lawyer helps you understand your legal options. They can guide you through court procedures, file paperwork, and speak on your behalf. Whether you’re seeking custody, visitation rights, or need to establish paternity, a lawyer can help protect your interests and fight for your parental rights.
Getting legal help is often the best way to make sure your voice is heard in court.
Establishing Paternity in New Jersey
Paternity means legally identifying who the father of a child is. If you were married to the mother when the child was born, the law assumes you are the father. But if you were not married, you may need to take extra steps to establish paternity.
You can do this by signing a Certificate of Parentage at the hospital or later at a local registrar’s office. If there is a disagreement, the court may order a DNA test to confirm paternity. Once paternity is established, you have the right to seek custody and visitation. You may also be required to pay child support.
Establishing paternity gives you a legal connection to your child, which is necessary before you can fully exercise your rights as a father.
Child Custody and Visitation for Fathers
There are two main types of custody in New Jersey: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody gives you the right to make decisions about your child’s life, such as schooling and healthcare. Physical custody means where the child lives most of the time.
You and the child’s mother can share custody, or one parent can have primary custody while the other gets parenting time (also called visitation). New Jersey courts prefer that both parents be involved in the child’s life unless it harms the child.
If you are denied time with your child or feel your parenting rights are not respected, a father’s rights lawyer can help you ask the court for fair custody or visitation arrangements. Every child deserves a strong relationship with both parents, and the law supports this goal.
How a New Jersey Father’s Rights Lawyer Can Help
Legal issues around parenting can be emotional and confusing. A New Jersey father’s rights lawyer understands the court system and knows how to help fathers protect their bond with their children. Whether you’re facing a custody dispute, need to prove paternity, or want to adjust child support, a skilled lawyer can help you through every step.
They’ll work hard to make sure your rights are respected and your child’s best interests are protected. Getting the right legal help can make all the difference in building a strong future with your child.
Building a Better Future with Your Child
Fathers play a vital role in their children’s lives. Whether you’re going through a separation, divorce, or custody battle, it’s important to know that New Jersey law supports your rights as a parent. With the help of a knowledgeable father’s rights lawyer, you can fight for your place in your child’s life and ensure a better future for both of you.
Protecting your parental rights today sets the foundation for a strong, loving relationship with your child tomorrow. To learn more, contact The Law Office of Jennifer J. McCaskill, LLC to schedule a free consultation with a family lawyer.
Contact an Experienced Monmouth County Divorce Attorney at The Law Office of Jennifer J. McCaskill, LLC for Legal Advice
To learn more and get the help you deserve, call The Law Office of Jennifer J. McCaskill, LLC, our divorce & family law firms in Red Bank. NJ are ready for anything. Call us at (732) 747-1882 or contact us online today.
You can also visit our law firm at 157 Broad St #111, Red Bank, NJ 07701.
