Who has custody in Philadelphia PA when parents are unwed?

Answer 1

Generally, from the time of conception, the mother has sole custody and control over the child. The father has no presumed parental rights to the child in any state. Regardless of any circumstances, he must apply to the courts to establish his rights of access, even if under a child support order and here is the reason:

Generally, if the parents are unmarried the mother has sole custody and control in most states until the father can establish his paternity. Remember, a child's mother can always be identified by medical records. Since the father didn't give birth and he was not legally married at the time of the birth he must establish his paternity by signing the birth certificate at the time of birth (waiving DNA testing rights) which must be done with mother's consent. If he doesn't sign the birth certificate then he must seek another way to establish his paternity and that is done through a DNA test. A paternity test can be arranged through the court. Once paternity has been established the father can request visitations, custody or the court will set up a schedule of regular child support payments for the child if she is to remain in the custody of her mother.