St. Charles Attorneys Dedicated To Preserving And Protecting Your Parental Rights
Last updated on July 8, 2026
In emotionally challenging custody disputes, Missouri courts consider the best interests of the child. The law also recognizes that grandparents and other family members have different legal standings regarding custody.
The Law Office of Baerveldt & Boedefeld, LLC, has represented the people of St. Charles County and other surrounding Missouri communities since 2009. Once you choose our firm, you work directly with our experienced attorneys, Mr. Donald and Mr. Christopher, who bring over 60 years of combined experience.
Understanding Mothers’ And Fathers’ Rights Under Missouri Law
Once a child is born to unmarried parents, the mother initially has sole legal and physical custody until legal paternity is established. The mother also has the right to file for support once paternity is legally established. In cases of domestic violence, a mother has the right to seek her protection and that of the child from the Missouri courts.
Under Missouri law, fathers must establish paternity to create a legal relationship with a child. Paternity can be established in two ways:
- Voluntary acknowledgment
- Court-ordered genetic testing
As a father, it is important to understand that, in child custody and visitation, the law favors 50/50 joint physical and legal custody, unless the court rules otherwise. You also have the obligation to provide child support. Our parental rights lawyer can help pursue practical solutions that serve the child’s best interests.
Grandparents’ And Other Relatives’ Custody Rights
Grandparents may petition the court when visitation has been unreasonably denied for over 90 days following events such as:
- Divorce
- Death of a parent
- When the child previously lived with them
Grandparents may seek custody if they can demonstrate that both parents are unfit or unable to care for the child properly. Other relatives, including aunts, uncles and adult siblings, may become involved in cases of abuse or neglect.
Termination Of Parental Rights In Missouri
Termination of parental rights may occur voluntarily, most commonly during stepparent adoptions, in which a parent knowingly consents. Also, involuntary termination can be done by the court and generally requires proof of statutory grounds, such as abuse or neglect.
Are you seeking to terminate another parent’s rights or defending against termination? Our parental rights attorney can advocate for your interests.
We Can Help
At The Law Office of Baerveldt & Boedefeld, LLC, our parental rights lawyer represents families in St. Charles, Saint Charles County and other areas in Missouri. Call us at 636-260-2515 or send us a message online to schedule your free 30-minute consultation.