It’s Time to Reclaim the Narrative
We hear it too often:
“She’s letting me see the kids this weekend.”
“She won’t let me FaceTime him.”
“She said I can’t come to the birthday party.”
If you’re an unmarried father in Georgia, this might sound familiar. But here’s what most dads don’t know:
You don’t need permission.
You need legitimation.
What Is Legitimation—and Why Does It Matter?
In Georgia, signing the birth certificate doesn’t give you legal rights as a father. That means:
- You have no legal custody
- You have no guaranteed visitation
- She can legally move, deny access, or make every decision—alone
- Legitimation is the legal process that gives you:
- Custody rights
- Visitation and parenting time
- The ability to make decisions for your child
It’s how Georgia turns “dad in name only” into legal fatherhood.
Why Georgia Law Works This Way
Georgia separates paternity (proving you’re the biological father) from legitimation (giving you legal rights).
So yes—you can be 100% certain you’re the father, and still have no legal authority.
Until you legitimate, you’re not on equal footing.
Real Talk: What Happens Without Legitimation?
- You may never see your child again if she moves
- You can’t make school, medical, or legal decisions
- You have no say in who the child lives with
- Your child may not be eligible for your benefits (life insurance, inheritance, etc.)
Don’t Wait for Permission—Get Protection
A judge doesn’t care how “involved” you’ve been if you haven’t legitimized.
And being “allowed” to see your child today doesn’t mean you will tomorrow.
If it’s not legal, it’s not secure.
Legitimation protects:
- Your parenting time
- Your child’s sense of stability
- Your rights if conflict arises
You Can Legitimate Without a Fight
This doesn’t have to be a courtroom battle. Many legitimation cases:
- Are uncontested
- Can be filed jointly
- Can be resolved without hostility
Even if the other parent objects, you still have the right to file.
“You’re not asking for a favor. You’re standing up for your role as a father.”
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to raise your voice. You don’t need to plead.
But you do need to act.
Legal fatherhood is your right—and your responsibility.
Need Help with Legitimation in Georgia?
At Catherine Verdery Ryan, Attorney at Law, we help fathers across Augusta, Columbia, Richmond, Burke, and surrounding counties secure their rights, their relationships, and their peace of mind.
📞 Call (706) 722-2663
Legitimation | Custody | Child Support | Family Law