Will I Be Legally Responsible for a Baby if My Pregnant Partner is Not Married to Me?

Clarifying your responsibilities is critical, especially if you’re unsure what to expect. We’ll help you understand the basics.

Care Net Pregnancy Center of Paradise is here for you. Keep reading to learn more about your legal responsibilities to your child.

Parenting: What You Should Know

California Family Code Section 7610 states that an unmarried mother automatically gains custody of her child at birth. As her partner, you do not automatically have custody if you’re not legally married. The mother would be legally and financially responsible for the child’s care.

However, if you establish legal paternity, you will also be responsible for your child. You might sign a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity or receive a court order on behalf of the child’s mother, which includes DNA testing.

Once paternity has been established, you both are legally required to pay for your child’s living expenses and meet their needs. You can also determine your custody status through the court system.

Some people willingly choose to establish paternity. Additionally, even if you don’t want to provide for the child, you might be legally obligated to determine your paternity status (i.e., if your relationship ends and the child’s mother petitions for child support).

What’s more, even if the child is not biologically yours, you could be obligated to pay child support if you live with the mother and demonstrate that you’ve provided for the child through food, clothing, etc.

This topic can be complex, so receiving adequate legal support and knowing your rights and responsibilities is crucial.

What is Child Support?

Child support is the amount of money you are legally required to pay monthly. You may receive a child support order if you and the other parent disagree on expenses or don’t know how to share this responsibility.

The monthly payment is calculated by how much each parent makes, how they file taxes, how much time they spend with their child, and other factors. Your responsibility to pay child support typically ends when your child turns 18 and graduates high school.

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed by this information. We’ll help you get the facts and refer you to the appropriate resources.

What About Adoption?

With adoption, the birth parents relinquish their parental rights to an adoptive family. You would not be legally responsible for the child, though you can form a relationship with them and be present in their life.

Discussing your partner’s intended decision is critical. You can explain your point of view, listen to hers, and understand the next steps. Your voice and support are crucial while making this decision. Standing alongside your partner shows that you care about her and this pregnancy.

We’re Here to Provide Clarity

Care Net Pregnancy Center of Paradise knows this can be an uncertain time. We’re here to explain options to you and your partner and walk you both through the available choices. Whether she chooses parenting or adoption, know that both educational and emotional support is available every step of the way.

Schedule a free and confidential appointment today. We’re here for you both.

Care Net Pregnancy Center of Paradise does not refer for or perform abortions.