Orlando Fathers Rights Lawyer

Protecting Fathers and Strengthening Parent-Child Relationships in Florida

The Donna Hung Law Group practices family law in Orlando to guide parents through some of the most personal and emotionally significant challenges involving their children. For many years, fathers faced unfair assumptions in custody and family law matters. Today, Florida law recognizes that children benefit from strong, meaningful relationships with both parents—and fathers have the same rights as mothers when it comes to parenting, time-sharing, and decision-making. Whether you are seeking custody, paternity establishment, time-sharing enforcement, or protection of your parental rights, our attorneys are here to advocate for you every step of the way.

Clients of the Donna Hung Law Group receive clear communication, practical direction, and strong legal support throughout their case. Our Orlando fathers rights lawyers take a strategic, solution-focused approach, working tirelessly to protect father-child bonds and ensure fathers are treated fairly under the law.

Understanding Fathers Rights in Florida

In Florida, fathers have the right to seek:

• Equal responsibility in parenting decisions
• Fair time-sharing arrangements
• Inclusion in major decisions affecting the child
• Court protection of their parental role
• Child support determinations based on accurate guidelines

However, rights differ depending on whether paternity has been legally established. Our attorneys help fathers understand their rights, responsibilities, and legal options regardless of their situation.

Fathers Rights in Married vs. Unmarried Fathers

A father’s legal position varies depending on marital status.

Married Fathers

If the child is born during the marriage, the husband is presumed the legal father. Fathers have automatic rights to:

• Time-sharing
• Parental responsibility
• Participation in custody decisions
• Protection of their parental role

Unmarried Fathers

When parents are not married, fathers must legally establish paternity to obtain rights such as:

• Time-sharing
• Custody
• Decision-making authority
• The ability to contest relocation
• The right to access school and medical records

We assist fathers in establishing paternity and securing their parental rights.

Establishing Paternity in Florida

Paternity can be established through:

• A voluntary acknowledgment signed by both parents
• A paternity action filed in court
• Genetic testing
• Marriage after the child is born

Once paternity is established, fathers can pursue time-sharing, parental responsibility, and child support arrangements that reflect their involvement and commitment.

Time-Sharing Rights for Fathers

Florida no longer uses the outdated terms “custody” or “visitation.” Instead, the state uses “time-sharing” and “parental responsibility.” Fathers have the right to seek:

• Equal or majority time-sharing
• Shared parental responsibility
• Participation in major decisions
• Holiday and summer schedules
• Enforcement of existing orders

Courts base time-sharing on the child’s best interests, not gender-based assumptions.

Child Support and Fathers Rights

Child support must be calculated fairly based on:

• Each parent’s income
• Time-sharing percentages
• Childcare and health insurance costs
• The child’s specific needs

We ensure fathers are not overcharged, that income is calculated correctly, and that support orders reflect current circumstances.

When Mothers Restrict or Block a Father’s Access

Unfortunately, some fathers face interference from the mother, including:

• Refusing visitation
• Withholding school or medical information
• Making unilateral decisions
• Filing false allegations
• Attempting to relocate without consent
• Coaching or influencing the child

Our attorneys help fathers enforce their rights, challenge harmful conduct, and seek court orders to protect their relationship with their child.

Fathers Rights in High-Conflict Custody Cases

High-conflict cases may involve:

• Allegations of abuse or neglect
• Parental alienation
• Substance abuse claims
• Domestic violence injunctions
• Disputes over relocation
• Mental health concerns

We help fathers present strong, evidence-based cases to protect their parental rights and maintain meaningful involvement in their child’s life.

Fathers Seeking Majority or Equal Time-Sharing

Fathers are increasingly seeking—and winning—equal or majority time-sharing. Courts consider:

• Each parent’s involvement in daily routines
• Willingness to foster a relationship with the other parent
• Stability and consistency of home environment
• Work schedules and availability
• School and community ties

We help fathers demonstrate their commitment, capability, and suitability for significant time-sharing.

Enforcement of Fathers Rights

If the other parent violates a court-approved parenting plan, fathers can seek enforcement. Common violations include:

• Denied or withheld time-sharing
• Chronic lateness or cancellations
• Unauthorized relocation attempts
• Interference with communication
• Manipulation of the child

Enforcement options include:

• Makeup time-sharing
• Contempt of court
• Attorney’s fees
• Modification of parenting plan
• Sanctions or penalties

We take decisive legal action to restore and protect fathers’ rights.

Modifying Parenting Plans for Fathers

Fathers may request modification when:

• Parenting time has shifted significantly
• A parent relocates
• A child’s needs change
• A parent’s schedule changes
• Safety concerns arise

Our firm helps fathers pursue modifications that reflect their evolving role in their child’s life.

What to Do If You Are a Father Seeking Custody or Rights

Fathers should act proactively by:

• Documenting involvement in the child’s life
• Keeping communication respectful and child-focused
• Collecting evidence of caregiving activities
• Avoiding hostile or retaliatory behavior
• Maintaining detailed records of time-sharing
• Seeking legal advice early

Strong documentation significantly strengthens a father’s case.

What to Do If You Are Facing False Allegations

Fathers sometimes face false claims during custody disputes. If this happens:

• Do not panic or react emotionally
• Gather evidence to disprove allegations
• Avoid contact with the accusing party
• Follow temporary orders strictly
• Seek immediate legal counsel

We defend fathers against unfounded allegations and help clear their name.

The Legal Process for Fathers Rights Cases

Fathers rights cases may involve several steps.

Filing a Petition

Depending on the situation, the case may begin with:

• A paternity petition
• A petition for time-sharing
• A petition for modification
• A relocation objection
• An enforcement action

Mediation

Florida requires mediation in most custody-related disputes.

Evaluations or Investigations

Depending on the case, courts may order:

• Parenting evaluations
• Guardian ad litem involvement
• Psychological evaluations
• Social investigations

Court Hearings

If no agreement is reached, the judge will make the final decision.

Comprehensive Orlando Family Law Practice

The Donna Hung Law Group handles all aspects of fathers rights and family law matters. Our attorneys assist with:

• Paternity establishment
• Time-sharing and parental responsibility
• Child support determinations
• Parenting plan enforcement
• Relocation disputes
• Contested custody litigation
• Domestic violence injunctions
• Divorce and post-judgment modification

We work tirelessly to protect fathers and their relationships with their children.

Orlando Family Courthouse Information

Fathers rights matters are handled at the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida.

Orange County Courthouse
425 N. Orange Avenue
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 836-2000
Website: www.ninthcircuit.org

These cases often involve multiple hearings, mediation, and evaluations.

Orlando Fathers Rights FAQs

Do fathers have equal rights in custody cases?

Yes. Florida law treats mothers and fathers equally.

Can fathers get majority custody?

Yes. Courts award majority custody to fathers when it serves the child’s best interests.

Do I need to establish paternity?

Unmarried fathers must establish paternity to gain legal rights.

What if the mother blocks my visitation?

You can seek enforcement or modification through the court.

Can I modify my parenting plan later?

Yes. Parenting plans may be modified when substantial changes occur.

Serving Throughout Orlando

• Baldwin Park
• College Park
• Lake Nona
• Winter Park
• Thornton Park
• Dr. Phillips
• MetroWest
• Hunters Creek
• Avalon Park
• Windermere
• Celebration
• Waterford Lakes
• Mills 50 District
• Audubon Park
• Conway
• South Eola
• Bay Hill
• Lake Como
• Lake Mary
• Vista Lakes

Orlando Fathers Rights Lawyers Here for You When You Need Us

At the Donna Hung Law Group, we believe every child deserves a meaningful relationship with both parents, and every father deserves a fair opportunity to be actively involved in their child’s life. Whether you are fighting for custody, seeking fair time-sharing, or trying to enforce your rights, our attorneys provide the knowledgeable, determined representation you need.

Call the Donna Hung Law Group at 407-999-0099 to schedule a confidential consultation and take the next step toward protecting your rights as a father.