Seattle Family Law Attorneys

Father’s Rights Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly are father’s rights?

Father’s rights pertains to the equal rights of fathers when it comes to issues such as child custody, child support and visitation.  In the past, the rights of fathers were reduced and shadowed by mothers who were favored by the court system as the primary caretakers of children.  Father’s rights lawyers strive to defend the rights of fathers so they can legally be active in the lives of their children. 

What does paternity mean?

Paternity refers to the biological father of a child. In family law, paternity issues often arise in regards to child custody and child support because paternity will need to be established before a child custody or child support order can be obtained.  Paternity can be established by performing a DNA test, which will often be ordered by court if paternity is in question.

What is child support and how is it determined?

Child support is financial support paid by one parent to another for the support of biological children who are not in their care.  Usually child support is paid by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent.  Child support amounts are determined considering such factors as the parent’s incomes and the children’s needs.

How long must a parent provide child support?

In most cases, a parent must continue paying child support until the child reaches the age of eighteen, unless they are emancipated or married before that point.

If I lose my job and cannot afford my previous child support payments, can the child support amount be changed?

If special circumstances significantly and interfere with a parent’s ability to pay child support, a child support modification may be possible.  A child support modification will be thoroughly reviewed by court to determine if the child support amount needs to be changed.  Sometimes a change in the child’s needs or the custodial parent’s needs may also make a child support modification necessary.   

Contact a Seattle Father’s Rights Attorney today with any specific questions you may have about your rights as a father!