my rights as a dad

[mark25050519]

i have recently split from my partner, who i've just had a baby with, she has two son's from a previous relationship who don't see there real farther.so i took over the role. i pay �40 per week maintenence on a monthly basis for my daughter, she doesn't like this and has now started saying i can't see the boys or my daughter. to top it all of she didn't put my name on the birth certificate and i'm stuck as to what rights i have to see the boys and to see my daughter. all i want is to sort this amicabley and to see my kids but most of all be a good dad

[misshiggy]

Sorry to hear your news. I'm not sure what the guideline is for maintenance so would suggest you get proper advice. Could try Citizens Advice Bureau and go from there. Its always a harsh reality when a separation occurs that money seems to be a bartering tool for some to get to see their children. I've been there and got the t-shirt. (No, not off his back!!)

Your ex sounds a bit bitter but that is NO reason to affect your relationship with the children. I hated my ex for ages but having been myself in the same situation as you as a child I would never do that to my children. I can't answer why she is being like this but would try going softly with her before doing anything legal. The children are the important thing here before anything else. Try and find out why she's being bitter and if you can do anything about it then fine. But you DO have rights. Sometimes a mediator can help, someone impartial, again CAB may be able to give you details. Also fathers can apply for Parental Rights but your partner has not named you as the father so you may have go through the rigmarole of doing a paternity test. Lots of if's and but's. Dont give up, you're an essentail part in your childrens' lives and wellbeing.
Hope that helps. xx

[cartman99]

bear in mind that its the children that have the right, the right to see both parents, hang in there, take what ever scraps you get, use it to build a relationship.

This is a long game, not a short one, the benefits of hanging on in there and always doing your upmost will be reaped in 10 - 12 years time when you have the kind of bond that no one can break