Parental Rights for Non-Married Couples

A couple that has never been married still retain parental rights similar to those enjoyed by parents who were once married.  Additionally, they can seek court orders dictating the custody (parenting time and decision-making) of their child. This process is called “Allocation of Parental Responsibilities.”  This process is very similar to a custody determination in a divorce process where a court can enter a final order regarding parenting time and decision-making based upon the best interests of the child.