My common law parthner decided to leave our home with our daughter (after I found out she'd had been having an affair). I have no way of contacting her, and I don't know exactly where she has taken our daughter. I have been supporting her and my daughter since I found out she was carrying our child. Please can someone tell me what rights I have as a father, and what I can do legally about this situation.

Thank you

Go and file for joint or full custody if you wish, you have every right to see your daughter. Or, if you do not want custody, you can file for visitation.

I agree with Charlotte. IF your name is on the birth Certificate you then yes you have every right to file for custody of your daughter. However if your name is not on the birth Certificate(I am not sure how the laws are in your state, but in Tennessee) there is a "bastard law" (I know the name sucks but that is what it is called) states that if your name is not on the certificate then you have NO rights at all! My husband and I are dealing with his ex like this. I wish you all the luck in the world. The world needs more men that want to be a dad and not just a sperm donor!!