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What Rights Does a Father Have if He Is on the Birth Certificate in Iowa?
Article written by Illinois & Iowa Attorney Kevin O’Flaherty
In this article, we answer the question, “What rights does a father have if he is on the birth certificate in Iowa?” We’ll cover the following:
- What rights does a married father have if he is on the birth certificate in Iowa?
- What rights does an unmarried father have if he is on the birth certificate in Iowa?
- What is the legal definition of paternity?
- Establishing paternity in Iowa
- Father’s rights to child custody and visitation in Iowa
What rights does a married father have if he is on the birth certificate in Iowa?
When a married couple has a child, the woman’s husband is presumed to be the baby’s biological father. Once the father’s name and signature are added to a birth certificate, he receives all rights and assumes all responsibilities any legal guardian has, including access to the child, the right to make legal decisions about the child’s upbringing, and being financially responsible for the child’s care.