Protecting Dad Time
Being a good dad shouldn’t mean you have to fight for the right to see your kids. But if you do end up in that fight, you deserve someone who knows the system, knows Ada County courts, and knows how to make sure your role as a father is respected.
In Idaho, fathers stand on equal ground with mothers. That’s not a nice idea; it’s the law. At Anthon Law in Boise, I help dads protect their time, their voice, and their place in their kids’ lives.
Equal Rights Under Idaho Law
Idaho Code § 32-1007 says fathers and mothers of a minor child have equal rights. When custody or parenting time is disputed, judges refer to Idaho Code § 32-717 and make their decisions based on the best interests of the child. That includes your bond with your child, your ability to provide a stable home, and whether you support your child’s relationship with their other parent.
Most of the time, Idaho courts encourage both parents to remain involved. Under § 32-717B, judges can award joint custody legal, physical, or both so long as it’s good for the child. The goal is to keep both parents active and present.
Establishing Paternity
If you weren’t married when your child was born, the first step to protecting your rights is establishing paternity. Without it, your role can be limited. Idaho law lets you do this with a simple Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity form, or through the courts if there’s a dispute.
Once paternity is confirmed, you’ve got the same rights and responsibilities as any parent. That means you can fight for custody, ask for fair parenting time, and have a say in significant decisions, such as education, healthcare, faith, and more.
I walk dads through this process quickly and cleanly, so you can move on to what really matters: time with your kid.
Building a Parenting Plan That Works in Real Life
“Custody” isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about decision-making and about when your child is with you. In Ada County, most parents share joint legal custody. Physical custody can be shared evenly, weighted toward one parent, or customized to fit your work schedule, your child’s school routine, and their activities.
Judges want stability for kids. They’ll look at your history, including school drop-offs, sports practices, doctor visits, and even your daily routines. My job is to present the court with a comprehensive picture of you as a father and propose a realistic and sustainable plan.
Child Support Modifications
Life doesn’t stand still. If your custody order no longer suits your needs, Idaho courts allow modifications when there has been a significant change. That could be a move, a shift in your work schedule, or your child’s needs evolving as they get older.
And if the other parent won’t follow the plan, you have the right to enforce it. Sometimes that means clearing up confusion, sometimes it means contempt proceedings. Either way, your time with your child shouldn’t depend on the other parent’s cooperation; it’s protected by court order.
Child Support Help
Support is meant to help raise your child, not punish you. Idaho calculates it under set guidelines. I ensure that your income is calculated fairly, credits are applied correctly, and extras, such as medical costs, are split properly. Support should be predictable, accurate, and not used as leverage in parenting disputes.
Why Dads in Boise Call Me
- I know Idaho law. § 32-1007 and § 32-717 give dads equal standing, and I use them to make sure judges see you as the capable father you are.
- I know the local courts. Ada County judges review parenting plans daily. I tailor your case to fit what works here, not just in theory.
- I know how to fight, and when not to. Many cases are settled through negotiation or mediation. But if trial is the only way to protect your time, I don’t back down.
- I speak your language. As a father myself, I can relate to the issues you are facing. I’ve been there.
Let’s Talk About Your Next Step
You’ve already put in so much effort by showing up and being there for your kids, creating that special bond. My role is to help ensure the court recognizes and respects all that you do.
If you’re a dad in Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Kuna, or Ada County ready to protect your rights, contact Anthon Law. We’ll discuss options and create a plan to make sure you get the time and authority your kids deserve to see from their dad.
