I live in WA state & not w/ the father of my baby, who is due in February. When I left the father, he started throwing in 'parental rights' issues. Can anyone help me out on finding more info in my state? Maybe a website, etc? I want to know what I could be up against &/or how to fight back. Tx

Hi & thank you Kayley's Mommy~I'm surprised DSHS doesn't send me an X-mas card..I have so many wranglings w/ them! Anyways, yes~didn't think to turn to them for help but makes sense. I'm in an area of Washington that is near Ocean Shores, I live about 20 mins East of it or so.
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No, we're not married. It would have been 6mos dating had I stayed. Unfortunately, nature had her say about a month into dating despite protection. Interesting that you say that he has no legal rights to the child..did not know that. On my first child, father almost didn't want to do paternity, but did. Haven't heard from 1st father since I was 5 mos along w/ son too. DSHS has a watch on my first borns father so that's what I'm thinking will happen w/ this one too. Not looking forward to it, but must be done.
Tx

There's a book called Unmarried Parents' Rights, you should definitely get it. You can find them pretty cheap on amazon. Washington tends to favor the parent that has taken most responsibility for the child. But another factor they take into consideration is how much you prevent or nurture a relationship between the child and other parent. Start keeping a journal of every contact you have with the dad and try to communicate via email, that way you can send yourself a bcc and have more proof. As much as it annoys me, I always let my son's father know when we're going to be in town visiting and try to encourage him to come see his son, usually he doesn't.

Good words~thank you! Cover my own self just in case