Legal Rights for Unmarried Parents

Missouri law dictates that when a married woman gives birth to a baby, her husband is automatically declared the legal father (even if he may not be the biological one). If an unmarried woman gives birth to a baby, on the other hand, the baby will not automatically have a legal father. In these instances, the father will most likely have to take a paternity test to establish his place as the rightful and legal father of his child.

As couples wait longer and longer to get married (or choose not to get married at all), it is becoming increasingly common and socially accepted for parents to have children out of wedlock. According to a 2014 poll by Gallup, a full 58% of adults said they thought it was “largely acceptable” for unmarried couples to have a baby.

Whether or not you choose to have a baby outside of wedlock is your choice, but there are a few important legal factors that should be considered before you make your decision. The team at Deputy & Mizell, LLC is here to help you evaluate some of these factors.

Legal Rights For Unmarried Parents

Mothers Are Automatically Granted Sole Custody.
For obvious reasons, an unmarried mother who gives birth to her child is viewed as the rightful parent and is granted sole legal and physical custody of her child. This means that the mother will be able to make the final say in any decision regarding the child’s care and well-being. Nothing can change this legal ruling except for an official court order.

Fathers Must Establish Paternity Before They Can Be Granted Custody Or Visitation Rights.
If a father is not legally recognized as a parent/guardian of his child, he will be subject to several limitations. For example, he will not be able to:

• Sign important documents regarding the child’s education.
• Make official decisions regarding his child’s healthcare.
• Have automatic custody or visitation rights.