When a child is born outside of a marriage, Georgia law states that the Mother has sole legal and physical custody of the child until the child is legitimated. For a Father to formally establish a legal connection to the child, the Father must file a petition to legitimate with the Court. A mother can do the same, which is called a petition to establish paternity. A court will establish a parenting plan and child support as part of the case. Factors the court can consider include the age of the child, the father’s bond with the child, and involvement with the child and the mother.
Geller Law knows the legitimation process can be daunting and your case is unique. Geller Law is devoted to advocating for what’s best for your child.