The bipartisan legislation, known as the "Good Dad" bill, was sponsored by Miami Gardens State Representative Christopher Benjamin during the 2023 Legislative Session. This law allows unwed fathers to gain custody rights and support obligations without the need to go to court to establish paternity. With these equal rights, unmarried fathers can now have an equal say in their child's education, healthcare, religion, time-sharing, and overall safety.
What You Need to Know About Fathers’ Rights in Florida
In the past, mothers typically had an advantage in family law cases due to perceptions of being the preferred caretaker. However, Florida’s laws have since eliminated gender biases, and now courts are expected to treat men and women equally in matters of divorce, child custody, and child support. Unfortunately, some men still face challenges in these cases, which shows that old habits can be hard to break.
When it comes to child custody, fathers often have a big concern. That’s because gender biases can still sometimes work against them, causing courts to favor mothers in custody disputes. This can result in fathers being left with limited visitation time, even if they are perfectly capable parents.
When it comes to custody matters, child support naturally comes into play. If you don't have sole or primary custody of your child, it's possible that you'll need to make child support payments to the child's mother. It's important to understand that child support is crucial, as it ensures your child's well-being. However, it's equally important that these payments are reasonable and don't place an excessive burden on you.
If you have any questions about your rights as a father, or if you need legal representation to protect your parental rights, look no further than Orshan, Spann & Fernandez-Mesa. We are a team of experienced fathers' rights lawyers based in Miami-Dade County. We are here to help you navigate through negotiation or litigation to achieve the favorable outcome you are seeking. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.
Get in touch with us online or call us at (305) 853-9161 today to speak with our fathers’ rights attorneys in Miami-Dade.
