Answer:
As a father, you have certain rights and responsibilities with respect to your children. You do not need a court order to obtain your rights as a father. You already have them. They are guaranteed by the United States Constitution and the laws of your state. Until and unless a court rules otherwise, your rights as a father and as a parent include the right to:
- Be an influence in your children’s lives, be involved, interact, and spend time with them;
- Love and nurture your children without harassment from the other parent;
- Decide where your children will live;
- Participate in the parenting of your children;
- See the school and medical records of your children;
- Attend and participate in your children’s extra-curricular activities;
- Have the custody, care and control of your children;
- Select your children’s school and determine whether it will be home, public, or private;
- Determine your children’s religious faith and practices;
- Determine your children’s doctors, dentist, and medical treatment;
- Follow your own beliefs and parenting style during your time with the children without interference from the other parent;
- Guide and discipline your children; and,
- Decide what is best for your children.
In addition to your rights, you also have certain duties, obligations and responsibilities, too. As a father and a parent, you have the responsibility to:
- Support your children;
- Provide them with food, shelter, and clothing;
- See that they obtain appropriate medical treatment;
- Provide access to their schooling;
- Protect them from harm and neglect;
- Foster their relationship with their other parent; and
- Give them all the love, nurturing and encouragement you possibly can.
Shared from About.Com By Cathy Meyer with the answer supplied by, James J. Gross
To delve into this matter further and to ensure your parent rights in the state of Arizona, call Gregory A. Riebesehl at Riebesehl Family Law Offices (602) 621-0779 to secure your immediate free consultation.