Becoming a father as a teenager is a life-changing experience, and if you’re not married to your child’s mother, you may be wondering about your rights.
In Tennessee, unmarried fathers of any age do not automatically receive custody or visitation rights. Instead, they must take legal steps to establish paternity and petition for child custody or parenting time. Here’s what you should know.
Establishing paternity
Unwed fathers have no legal rights to their children until paternity is established. The easiest way to do this is by signing a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAP) at the hospital or later through the Tennessee Department of Health.
If the mother disputes paternity, a court-ordered DNA test may be necessary.
Filing for custody
Once paternity is confirmed, you can file a Petition to Establish Parentage and Custody in court. Tennessee law presumes that an unmarried mother has full custody by default, so fathers must formally request custody or visitation rights.
Tennessee family courts consider several crucial details when making decisions about child custody.
Factors courts examine
Family law judges will evaluate several different factors when you are pursuing child custody rights, including:
- Your ability to provide for the child’s needs
- The emotional bond between you and your child
- The stability and safety of your home environment
- Your maturity, decision-making ability and readiness to be a parent
- If applicable, any history of substance abuse or criminal activity
It can be tough to take responsibility for a child at such a young age, but with information and legal guidance, you can protect and enjoy your parental rights.
