Are you an unmarried parent in Gulfport, MS, trying to navigate the complexities of child custody? I know it can be overwhelming and confusing, but don’t worry – I’m here to help. As a child custody attorney in Gulfport, MS, I’ve helped numerous clients successfully navigate this process and protect their rights as parents.

With my assistance, you can understand the key legal steps involved in establishing paternity and crafting a parenting plan that prioritizes your child’s well-being. Whether you’re seeking sole or joint custody, my goal is to help you achieve the best possible outcome for you and your child.

Let’s dive into what you need to know about child custody as an unmarried parent in Mississippi.

Establishing Paternity is Critical

Establishing paternity is the essential first step for unmarried fathers who want legal rights to custody or visitation. Without legal paternity, a father has no enforceable rights regarding their child. This process is not automatic and must be completed voluntarily or through the courts.

If both parents agree, an Acknowledgment of Paternity can be signed, which legally recognizes the father. If there is disagreement, a court can order a paternity test to confirm fatherhood. Once paternity is established, the father can seek custody or visitation rights, ensuring their role in the child’s life is protected under the law.

Custody Rights For the Mother

Nearly 56% of Mississippi babies are born to unwed mothers. Under Mississippi law, an unmarried mother is typically granted sole legal and physical custody of the child by default unless the father pursues and secures custody rights through the court. However, being the custodial parent does not mean the other parent has no rights or responsibilities.

As a child custody attorney in Gulfport, MS, I strongly advise mothers to work with their child’s father to create a parenting plan that outlines visitation schedules, decision-making authority, and financial support. This avoids unnecessary conflicts and ensures parents have a say in important decisions regarding their child’s upbringing.

Types of Custody

The court can award two types of custody in Mississippi – legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody gives one or both parents the right to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing, like education, healthcare, and religious practices. Physical custody determines where the child will live on a day-to-day basis.

The court can grant these custody types jointly to both parents or solely to one parent, depending on what serves the child’s best interests. Joint legal custody allows both parents to share decision-making, whereas joint physical custody involves the child spending significant time with each parent. One parent holds primary responsibility if sole custody is awarded, with visitation rights typically given to the other.

Ready to Hire a Child Custody Attorney in Gulfport, MS?

Navigating the child custody process as an unmarried parent can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Let me help you understand your rights and fight for your child’s best interests. As a skilled child custody attorney in Gulfport, MS, I will guide and support you every step of the way.