When unmarried couples in Florida have children together, they often face the same parenting challenges as married parents—but the legal process for establishing rights and responsibilities is different. Understanding how Florida family law handles issues such as custody, child support, and parental rights is essential for protecting both the child’s well-being and each parent’s relationship with the child. At the Law Offices of Robert L. Bogen, we can provide legal assistance to the Boca Raton public navigating these important matters.

Establishing Legal Paternity

For unmarried parents, legal paternity must be established before the father has enforceable parental rights. This can be done voluntarily by signing the Florida Acknowledgment of Paternity form at the hospital or filing with the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics. If paternity is disputed, either parent may request genetic testing through a court order.

Once paternity is legally recognized, the father gains rights such as shared parental responsibility, timesharing, and the ability to participate in decisions affecting the child.

Parental Responsibility and Timesharing

Florida does not use the terms “custody” or “visitation.” Instead, the law refers to parental responsibility and timesharing.
Unmarried parents are treated the same as married parents when determining:

• How parenting decisions will be made
• How much time each parent will spend with the child
• What arrangement serves the child’s best interests

A Parenting Plan is required in every case involving minor children. It outlines timesharing schedules, decision-making authority, communication expectations, and more.

Child Support Obligations

Child support is calculated the same way for unmarried and married parents. Florida uses a statutory formula that considers:

• Each parent’s income
• The number of children
• Medical insurance and childcare costs
• The timesharing arrangement

Support is intended to ensure the child receives financial stability regardless of the parents’ relationship status.

Relocation and Other Parenting Disputes

If a parent wishes to relocate more than 50 miles for more than 60 days, Florida’s relocation laws require either parental agreement or a court order.
Unmarried parents must follow the same procedures as married parents, including filing a petition and proving that the move is in the child’s best interest.

Other disputes—such as modifications of timesharing or disagreements over schooling or medical care—are resolved through family court, which prioritizes the child’s well-being above all else.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Unmarried parents often assume they have automatic rights, but that is not always the case—especially for fathers. Establishing legal parentage, obtaining a Parenting Plan, and ensuring fair child support arrangements are crucial steps.

At the Law Offices of Robert L. Bogen, we assist Boca Raton parents with establishing rights, resolving disputes, and securing long-term stability for their children.