An Acknowledgement of Paternity, or AOP, form allows an unmarried father to accept responsibility for his newborn child. This form is often available in Texas hospitals and birthing facilities. However, before signing an AOP, it's important for men to have a clear...
Paternity
Fathers should be aware of paternity fraud
If you've assumed paternity for a child only to find out that you don't share any DNA with the child, you should know about fathers' rights. Misassigned paternity can be devastating for fathers and children, and it often puts financial strain on fathers. If you're a...
Understanding your legal rights as a Texas father
If you father a child outside of marriage, you must take legal steps to retain the right to a relationship with your child. Texas agrees that both parents should take part in raising a child as long as that arrangement serves the child's best interests. If you face...
When someone can adopt a child without the father’s consent
A person who would like to adopt a child in Texas must first have the consent of the parents in most cases, whether it is stepparent adoption, private adoption or through the foster care system. However, Texas law may not give a father a voice in the matter in some...
How do I make sure my children inherit from me?
Like many single or divorced fathers, you want to pass along an inheritance to your children after your death. There are many options available to make this happen. But as you make your plans, you should watch out for possible pitfalls that might cause your assets to...
Out of touch? 5 ways divorced dads can connect with teen daughter
Your were there for the "terrible twos" and the tantrums, but lately, as a divorced father, you are realizing more and more that your little girl is growing up — without you. It can be hard to connect with a teen with whom you share a home, but for fathers with...
What to do if you just found out you are a father
If you are a father to a child born out of wedlock, you can face many challenges to building a meaningful, ongoing relationship with your child. For instance, some dads only learn that they are parents months or even years after the birth of their children. This...
Building a connection as a non-custodial father
If you are a father who has had limited time with your child, you may feel that there is a lack of a connection between the two of you. This may further discourage you from fighting for custody, because you may believe that your child does not need you in their life....
6 tips for fathers facing child custody disputes
Divorce is difficult enough without having to defend yourself to the court as a concerned, competent and caring father.Unfortunately, child custody disputes arise all too often. Here are six tips to help you develop a strong case and protect your parental rights. 1....
A review of common child support questions
Contentious divorces are nothing new or revolutionary. But, what a lot of the movies miss out on discussing, is how complicated it is to divide a life and set up support plans. Movies and television focus on the emotional aspects of divorce (cheating! Secret...