What Rights Do Unmarried Fathers Have in Alabama?

By Ryan & Rouse | Family Law Attorneys | 256-801-1000

If you’re a father who isn’t married to your child’s mother, you may be wondering: What rights do I have in Alabama? The short answer is — you have rights, but you must take legal steps to protect them.

At Ryan & Rouse, we represent unmarried fathers across North Alabama who want to be present, involved, and legally recognized in their child’s life. Here’s what you need to know.

Paternity Must Be Legally Established

Unlike married fathers, unmarried fathers in Alabama do not automatically have legal rights to custody or visitation — even if their name is on the birth certificate. To gain legal recognition as the child’s father, you must establish paternity through one of the following:

• Signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity(often done at the hospital)
• Filing a Petition to Establish Paternity in family court
• Submitting to DNA testing if paternity is contested

Once paternity is legally established, you can seek custody, visitation, and decision-making authority — and you can also be held responsible for child support.

Rights You Can Seek

After paternity is confirmed, unmarried fathers can request:

• Custody(sole or joint)
• Visitation or a formal parenting plan
• Legal decision-making authority(medical, educational, religious)
• The right to be notified of legal actions involving the child

The court’s decisions are always based on the best interests of the child, but Alabama law does not favor mothers over fathers — both parents have equal standing once paternity is established.

What If the Mother Doesn’t Cooperate?

We often hear from fathers who have been cut out of their child’s life — not allowed to visit, not informed of important events, or even kept in the dark about where their child lives. If this sounds familiar, don’t wait. The longer you go without establishing your rights, the harder it may be to assert them later.

At Ryan & Rouse, we can help you file for paternity and visitation at the same time, so you don’t lose precious time with your child.

A Father’s Role Matters

Children benefit when both parents are involved — emotionally, financially, and legally. If you want to be there for your child, Alabama law gives you the tools to do so. We’re here to help you use them.

📞 Call Ryan & Rouse at (256) 801-1000 today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you fight for your rights and build a lasting relationship with your child.