Common/law Marraige New York

[Sabrina Qualls]

i live in new york i am pregnant with my first child living with boyfriend for 4yrs. i recently stopped working due to my pregnancy boyfriend has obtained a new job with mta (transit). we are living in a shelter due to fire. boyfriend says he does not want the responsibilty of a family. tells me he can do what he wants with his money do not ask question. i want to move i having my first baby how can i take him to court for spousal support and child support. Timid

 

[Grandma B]

New York is not a common law marriage state so you aren't a spouse. He will, however, be required to support his child.

Maybe one of the people who runs the shelter could give you information on how to proceed. Are you receiving pre-natal care for you and the baby? If not, you need to get yourself enrolled in Medicaid and see a doctor.

I'm not familiar with NY, but you could try looking for child welfare agencies, social services, whatever, in the area where you live. You should also be eligible for food stamps and other assistance. They'll also help you collect from the baby's father.

 

[vrzirn]

Just thinking ahead. He could deny the child is his. Then you will have to have DNA prove he is the father. Eventually, a judge will order child support after examining his income The DA's office is supposed to help you collect. Good luck, this is not going to be easy.