[wjbh54]

My son's former girlfriend became pregnant before they split up. He intends to stay involved and support the child when the time comes. He has been told he will not be allowed in the hospital during the birth and will not be listed on the birth certificate.She feels it is her baby and he has no rights, even though he plans on providing support. She has cut-off communication with him and will not provide any information for him on the pregnancy. He feels he has some rights as the presumed father(she will not submit to testing) , but she doesn't see it that way. Any thoughts on this? P.S.= said the baby was his when they were together, but now it appears she wants just to hurt him. This will be his first child.

[Fr_Chuck]

There is nothing he can do, till the child is born. Once born, he files for visitation or even joint custody of the child. He will ask for a DNA test to prove he is the father. Does not matter what she wants after the child is born, he can get his rights, but not till the child is born.

[ScottGem]

To add to what Chuck said, he needs to check for a putative father's registry where you live (ANY question on law needs to include your general locale as laws vary by area. ) Listing himself in that registry may help.

But, until the child is born the mother is in almost complete control. Your son should consult an attorney now, to prepare. It is possible some pre birth motions can be filed. It is possible that the hospital and/or her OB/Gyn can be put on notice to inform him of the birth. A local attorney can advise him what he can do now. As Chuck said, as soon as the child is born he can file for Custody and visitation. She may counter file for support, but that doesn't appear to be an issue.