Marietta Father's Rights Lawyer
Fathers deserve a real relationship with their children — and the law supports it. We help dads establish, protect, and enforce their parental rights in Georgia.
Legitimation: the first step for unmarried fathers
In Georgia, an unmarried father has no legal custody or visitation rights until he legitimates his child — even if he is named on the birth certificate and pays support. Legitimation is the court process that establishes a father's legal relationship to his child and his right to seek custody and parenting time. It's one of our core focus areas.
Paternity vs. legitimation
Paternity establishes who the biological father is — and the child-support obligation — through marriage, a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity, or DNA testing (a court can order genetic testing if paternity is disputed). Legitimation is the separate step that grants the father parental rights. Most fathers need both, and we handle them together.
Custody and parenting time for fathers
Georgia courts decide custody on the child's best interests, with no preference for mothers. Once legitimated, a father stands on equal footing to pursue real custody and parenting time, and we build the strongest, most honest case for it.
Defending against false allegations
False domestic-violence or unfitness accusations can unfairly derail a father's case. We defend against them firmly — while taking genuine safety concerns seriously — so your relationship with your children isn't damaged by claims that don't hold up.
When circumstances change
A new job, a move, or a change in your child's needs can justify modifying custody or support. We guide fathers through the exact process the court requires to make those changes.
Questions & answers
Father's Rights: common questions
Can an unmarried father get custody in Georgia?
Yes — but he must first establish legal fatherhood through legitimation. Until a father legitimates, the mother has sole legal custody. We guide fathers through legitimation and custody together.
What is the difference between paternity and legitimation in Georgia?
Paternity establishes who the biological father is (and child-support obligations); legitimation gives the father legal parental rights like custody and visitation. Fathers usually need both.
How does a father establish paternity in Georgia?
Through marriage to the mother, a signed Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity, or DNA testing. If paternity is disputed, a court can order genetic testing.
Do fathers have equal rights in Georgia custody cases?
Yes. Georgia decides custody on the best interests of the child, with no automatic preference for either parent — but an unmarried father must legitimate first.
Related
How we can also help.
Legitimation
For unmarried fathers in Georgia, legitimation is everything. It's the legal step that turns bio…
Paternity
Establishing paternity protects a child's rights — and a parent's. Whether you're confirming or …
Child Custody
Nothing matters more than your children. We build custody cases around their well-being and your…
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