Petition · Recognition · Belonging
In most states, an unmarried father has no custody or visitation rights until he legitimizes his child in court — even if he's present every day. We'll walk you through exactly how, then keep you close to your kid, and to a room full of men doing the same.
~40%
of US births are to unmarried parents
0
automatic rights without legitimation in GA
1
petition can change that
You
aren't doing this alone
Step One
Every county handles filing fees and process a little differently. Pick where the mother lives — that's usually where you'll file.
Learn the Process
Basics · 6 min read
Legitimation is the Georgia legal process that gives an unmarried father rights to his child. Learn what it does, who can file, and how to start.
Timeline · 5 min read
Most Georgia legitimation cases take 60 to 180 days from filing to final order. Learn what speeds it up and what causes delays.
Costs · 5 min read
Georgia legitimation filing fees range from $213 to $215 in most counties. Sheriff service adds about $50. Learn how to reduce costs and what to budget.
The Room
WINS
"Filed in March, court date in June. My daughter knows my name is on it now, not just my face."
— Father, Fulton County
STRUGGLES
"Paid support for two years before anyone told me that didn't mean I had rights to see him."
— Father, DeKalb County
ASK A FATHER
"Anyone dealt with the mother contesting after two years of us co-parenting fine?"
— 6 replies