Whether you are facing a custody dispute or not receiving timely child support payments, a Seattle mothers’ rights lawyer may be able to help. The law treats both spouses equally, and mothers have extensive rights related to their children. Let our firm help you enforce them.
There are few bonds stronger than those between a mother and her child. The goal of our experienced family attorneys is to ensure you get the chance to develop those bonds now and in the future.
It is important to understand that the law does not differentiate between mothers and fathers when it comes to parental rights. Both parties have the same protections related to their children. While these rights are important, they are not absolute. Ultimately, a court will make decisions regarding support or custody based on what is best for the child.
When judges consider the best interests of the child, they will examine a wide range of factors, including:
Understanding this standard may be difficult without help, but our Seattle mothers’ rights attorneys are here to answer your questions.
The main difference between mothers and fathers and their respective parental rights is how they are established, as a Seattle attorney could explain. This process is much simpler for birth mothers. When a woman gives birth to a child, she is named on the birth certificate and immediately given full parental rights.
This is not always the case with the father. While there is a presumption that the mother’s husband is the child’s father, this can be disputed in court. A person may also volunteer as the father by placing their name on the certificate with the mother’s consent.
In cases where there is a dispute over the identity of the father, it may be necessary to petition the court for a resolution. Either party can file a lawsuit to have a DNA test conducted. The judge will use the results of the test to determine whether the individual in question is the father.
A positive paternity test might identify the biological father, but it does not immediately award parental rights. It does give the father the right to petition the court for access to the child.
Mothers have a right to pursue legal action when the other parent fails to follow a custody or support order. However, some of the best outcomes are secured through negotiation rather than litigation.
Our attorneys could help a Seattle mother enforce her rights by dealing directly with the other parent or their legal counsel. Many disputes can be resolved amicably without the need for costly or time-consuming lawsuits. For example, issues that are the result of a genuine misunderstanding or a brief moment of anger can often be settled through open discussion.
When negotiation is not an option, our team is prepared to take all of the necessary actions to protect your rights. These may include efforts to enforce child support or custody agreements.
If you are involved in a dispute regarding your children, understanding your rights is crucial. Twyford Law Office knows how important the bond between mother and child is, which is why we work tirelessly to protect it.
Let our Seattle mother’s rights lawyer advise you of your options. Contact us immediately for a confidential consultation.