Question:
My fiance and I recently went our seperate ways. She is currently pregnant with our child and due next spring. Due to recent comments and actions from her, I am afraid that she may leave the state, and that I will have no say on the child's name. Or that I may not get to see my child for the first few weeks. Her OB/GYN has me listed as the father. As we both were there during the first visit. Does an unmarried father-to-be have any rights?
Answer:
Allow me to preface my answer to your question with the disclaimer that I am not licensed to practice law in the state of Ohio. I know of persons in my jurisdiction who were able to file a paternity action prior to the birth of the child to try to prevent the mother from moving away or depriving him of those first days. I do not know if a paternity action for an unborn child is permissive in Ohio. It would be rather unusual, but is probably your only avenue to try to protect your rights. Also there is something in my jurisdiction called the putative father registry. It allows a man who believes himself to be the father to put it in the public records. I suggest you register with them. Also in your paternity action, you will want to ask for the child to have your name. The court will not always do that. If there is any argument from her, then usually they will need to determine that it is in the childs's best interest to have your name.
