Do Unmarried Father’s Have Same Rights As Married Ones?

You might be surprised to learn that about 1/3 of our family law cases are for unmarried parents, and one question we commonly hear is; “are my rights the same as a married father?

The same laws that govern parenting plans, child support, visitation, and the rest apply whether the parents are married or not.

However, FATHERS DO NOT HAVE LEGAL RIGHTS until paternity is proven.

When deciding on child custody, courts consider the same factors in cases where the parents are divorcing, dissolving a domestic partnership, or otherwise separating.

In the end, the best interests of the child ALWAYS take precedence over all other concerns.

In-Depth Reading: Oregon Custody Laws for Unmarried Parents
Related Reading: Oregon Custody Factors: The Best Interest Of The Child