DeRidder Fathers’ Rights Lawyer

DeRidder Fathers’ Rights Attorney

Fathers’ rights cases can feel like uphill battles. Every case is unique, but no matter the situation, you can count on Louisiana courts to make decisions about fathers’ rights based solely on the child’s best interests. Fathers’ rights cases can involve both contested and uncontested legal decisions. Reaching a resolution can be complicated, even in cases where both parents are on the same page. It’s recommended that you work with a DeRidder fathers’ rights lawyer.

Godley Law Firm has navigated complex family legal matters throughout southwestern Louisiana for decades. Our head attorney, William Godley, brings diverse experience as an assistant attorney general. Plus, we’re a local law firm. You can rest assured you’re working with a legal professional who cares about our local community.

Fathers’ Rights Cases in Deridder, LA

According to recent data, approximately 18 million children in the United States do not live with any type of father figure present in the home. This includes a biological, step, or adoptive father. Nearly 50 percent of children in Louisiana live in single-parent homes.

With over 1,000,000 children under the age of 18 living in the state, fathers’ rights laws stand to affect a great number of people. DeRidder specifically is home to nearly 10,000 residents. About 23 percent of the population includes children under the age of 18. Our goal as a local Louisiana law firm is to provide the support our clients need as they navigate difficult matters, such as fathers’ rights cases.

Having your rights as a father threatened doesn’t just affect the parents. Research shows that children with fathers who are actively involved in their lives and education have higher grades on average. Moreover, children with fathers in the home are four times less likely to live in poverty.

Louisiana courts make decisions based on your child’s best interests. You must prove that you are an active and consistent part of your child’s life. Most judges prefer to grant parents joint custody when possible.

Even so, a successful fathers’ rights case can be difficult to achieve. It’s recommended that you work with a DeRidder fathers’ rights attorney to help you through the process. They can help you resolve your case both efficiently and correctly.

How a Local DeRidder Fathers’ Rights Lawyer Can Help With Your Case

If you’re facing family issues in court, it’s helpful to work with a local team that has experience handling cases like yours. Godley Law Firm brings over 3.5 decades of family law experience. We’re comfortable advocating for our clients both in and out of the courtroom.

With extensive experience working in the 36th Judicial District Court in Beauregard Parish, we’re not afraid of litigation. Attorney William Godley is a proud Louisiana resident who is dedicated to representing local community members. Our team leads with empathy and creativity to reach a viable resolution for your case.

FAQs

What Rights Do Louisiana Fathers Have When It Comes to Their Children?

What rights Louisiana fathers have when it comes to their children can vary depending on the details of the situation. Fathers who have established paternity have the right to seek child custody and visitation rights, and they are eligible to provide child support if necessary.

If a father is unmarried and doesn’t have formal paternity recognition, they do not have the same rights. In this case, it’s wise to hire a father’s rights lawyer to establish paternity.

What Types of Matters Can a DeRidder Fathers’ Rights Attorney Help Me With?

The types of matters a DeRidder fathers’ rights attorney can help you with revolve around making important decisions on behalf of your child’s best interests. You can hire a father’s rights lawyer to support you with any number of matters.

Our DeRidder family lawyers at Godley Law Firm have experience handling matters like:

• Creating custody and visitation agreements
• Determining child support
• Establishing paternity
• Securing decision-making authority

Family issues are important and warrant involving attorneys to improve the odds of success.

How Can a Father Become a Legal Parent in DeRidder?

How a father can become a legal parent in DeRidder depends on the details of their family’s situation. If you were not married to the child’s mother when they were born, you must follow the correct steps to establish paternity.

If both parents agree to the father’s status, they can sign an Acknowledgement of Paternity form. Otherwise, the father may have to file a claim with the 36th Judicial District Court in Beauregard Parish to request a paternity test.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Father’s Rights Lawyer in DeRidder?

How much it costs to hire a father’s rights lawyer in DeRidder depends on the complexity of your case. You can typically expect lower legal fees for simple, uncontested matters. Contested custody battles or refusals to accept paternity results can cost more.

In these more challenging situations, it is more important to have a DeRidder fathers’ rights lawyer on your side. Family lawyers typically charge a flat fee, an hourly rate, or a retainer.

Hire a Father’s Rights Lawyer in DeRidder to Discuss Your Case in More Detail

A father can play an important role in their child’s life. If your rights as a father are being threatened, it’s imperative that you act quickly to solidify your role in the family.

If legal action is needed to make that happen, it’s imperative that you hire a father’s rights lawyer you can trust. Your attorney can help you understand your rights and advocate for you through mediation with the co-parent or litigation in court.

Godley Law Firm has navigated complex family matters in Louisiana for over 35 years. We’re confident we can represent you through your father’s rights case so that you feel supported.

If you’re ready to tell us your story, come see us at our office in Lake Charles. We’re located right off US-90 and near I-10 downtown. Call the office to set up an initial appointment with a trusted attorney today.