Unmarried Parents

Although not realized by much of the public, in Florida, the parental rights of parents who were not married at the time of the Minor Child(ren)’s conception and/or birth, may be different from those of parents whom were married at the time of the Minor Child(ren)’s birth. Unfortunately, due to the difference in legal rights of unmarried parents, this can sometimes inhibit or alienate one parent from the Minor Child(ren) when unmarried parents are in turmoil or disagreement. Some parents, in their anger or desire for control, use the Minor Child(ren) as a pawn by not allowing the other parent to see his/her Minor Child(ren) and/or implementing stringent and/or excessive rules for the other parent to enjoy time-sharing with their Minor Child(ren), to the absolute detriment of the Minor Child(ren).

Recognizing the Minor Child(ren)’s best interest of joint and mutual parental participation in most, although not all, circumstances, it is imperative that unmarried parents, particularly in the aforementioned circumstance, do not become submissive. Instead, unmarried parents should act quickly in hiring legal representation to protect and establish legally enforceable parental rights and to avoid the potential for missing out on valuable, precious time with your Minor Child(ren) and your right to have a meaningful relationship with them, in the event of the demise of the parents’ relationship.

SHAMY, EL FADEL & MAHONE recognizes that you don’t have time to waste, particularly if your biological child(ren) are being kept away from you and/or your contact with your biological child(ren) is limited. Accordingly, recognizing the urgency and emotional turmoil involved in matters such as these, after evaluating your circumstances and dependent upon our findings, we would promptly petition the Court to establish time-sharing and a parenting plan on behalf of the unmarried parent and zealously advocate for your legal rights to your child(ren).