If you are planning on having a baby or are already expecting, there is likely a lot going through your mind. Bringing a child into the world is a big responsibility and you will want to make sure your child is well taken care of. Here are some of the key ways you can make sure your child’s rights are protected.
Know the Laws
One of the best ways to ensure your child’s rights are protected is to understand what those rights are in the first place. If your child is going to be born with a disability, for example, start researching what his rights, and your rights as his parent, are. Simple knowledge can prevent either of you from being taken advantage of.
Make Your Wishes Known
You should inform both the baby’s father and your parents what your wishes are regarding your baby. In most cases, simply communicating this information will allow them to act on your wishes if something goes wrong, such as if they have to choose between saving you or saving the baby. Obviously this is not always possible for a number of reasons. You may want your child to have nothing to do with its father and your parents may not be particularly supportive.
Start Estate Planning
Creating a will provides much stronger protection than verbal intent. You never want to consider your own passing, but it is very possible during childbirth. You will especially want to consider who should take guardianship of the baby. If you don’t indicate this in your will, the courts will be able to make that determination, which may be contrary to your wishes. You canwrite a simple, legally binding will yourself, but in many cases it’s better to contact an attorney to ensure your will is as legally solid as possible.
Plan for Birth Injuries
There are any number of injuries that can occur during childbirth. Some may, unfortunately, be the result of medical malpractice, which can result in conditions that affect your baby for the rest of his life. If you are concerned about any condition affecting your baby that you believe to be the result of poor medical care, a medical malpractice attorney such as those from Snyder & Wenner, P.C. can give you legal guidance.
As a new mom, your baby will be your entire world and you will want to do everything in your power to protect him. Follow these suggestions to provide your child the best protection possible. Taking precautions will give him the best possible start to life.
About the Author: Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. She went to college at The Ohio State University where she studied communications. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and long walks in the park with her husky Snowball. You can find her on Twitter at @LizzieWeakley and on Facebook at facebook.com/lizzie.weakley.
