The mother is the natural guardian of a kid born out of wedlock in Florida. Legal custody of the child is automatically granted to the unwed mother. In the state of Florida, naming the father on a birth certificate does not confer any rights on him. He can't be forced to pay child support either. Florida is a maternal state. That means that mothers are favored over fathers when it comes to parenting time and access to children. This is because there is a presumption that parents will share decision-making responsibilities and act as joint guardians for their children. The court may make orders favoring one parent over another if they find that being equal isn't in the best interest of the child. If you're the father of a child and want to get involved in your daughter's life, you need to secure legal rights. For example, under Florida law, you cannot be required to provide financial assistance for your child's education unless you have been awarded custody by a court order. Even then, your obligation ends once your child reaches the age of 18. To enforce this rule, all you need to do is file a paternity action with the court. You will then be given notice of any educational activities that your daughter may be subjected to and allowed to attend without charge. Fathers also have rights under Florida law regarding medical care.