I am an unwed mother living in the state of VA. My child's father signed the birth certificate and a voluntary acknowledgement of paternity....

Question

I am an unwed mother living in the state of VA. My child's father signed the birth certificate and a voluntary acknowledgement of paternity. We never went to court for child support or visitation. I would like to know if I have sole legal and physical custody. If not what do I need to do to obtain it? My child's father is very hostile towards me and refuse to help me out when I need an information from him or to give me a document needed to obtain a service for my daughter....I need to be able to make decisions for my daughter without counting on him because he wants to make my life difficult. I am not opposed to visitations and despite my ex's attempts to alienate me, encourage a healthy relationship with his child! Thank you for your help!

Answer

Yes, as the natural mother of the subject child and absent a valid court

order indicating otherwise, the law considers you as having sole legal and

physical custody of this child under the circumstances you've described.