Attorney Cynthia Hawes is helping families better understand some of the most confusing parts of family law. During a recent appearance on The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, she answered common questions about child custody, child support, grandparents’ rights, fathers’ rights, and parental alienation.
Her practical advice offered parents a clearer picture of how family courts work. More importantly, she encouraged families to take the right legal steps early to protect both their rights and their children.
Cynthia Hawes Explains Grandparents’ Rights in Family Court
One of the first topics discussed was grandparents’ rights. Hawes explained that many grandparents believe they automatically have visitation rights. However, that is not usually the case.
Instead, grandparents typically must file a petition asking the court for visitation or custody. They must also prove that granting those rights serves the child’s best interests. Since family laws differ across states, outcomes can vary depending on where the case is filed.
Rickey Smiley shared his own experience after successfully obtaining grandparent visitation rights in Alabama. He acknowledged that these cases can be emotionally difficult, especially after family conflicts or the loss of a parent.
Child Support Advice Every Parent Should Know
Hawes also addressed concerns about child support, especially for parents who cannot afford a private attorney. She explained that families can still receive help through their state’s child support enforcement agency.
Although the process may take longer than hiring private legal counsel, those agencies can help establish and enforce child support orders. As a result, parents should not avoid seeking support simply because they cannot afford private representation.
She also highlighted a mistake that often delays family court cases.
Many cases stall because the other parent is never properly served with legal paperwork.
Without proper legal service, courts cannot move forward with the case, regardless of the issues involved.
Cynthia Hawes Urges Unmarried Fathers to Protect Their Rights Early
The discussion also focused on fathers’ rights, particularly for unmarried fathers. Hawes encouraged fathers to act quickly if they want legal custody or visitation.
“Don’t wait,” she advised, explaining that fathers should begin the legal process as early as possible after a child is born.
Rickey Smiley reinforced that message by reminding listeners that being listed on a birth certificate does not automatically grant legal parental rights to unmarried fathers. Instead, fathers should legally establish paternity and obtain the appropriate court orders.
Taking those steps early can help avoid future custody disputes while protecting both the parent’s and the child’s interests.
Why Attorney Cynthia Hawes Warns Against Parental Alienation
Another important topic was parental alienation. Hawes described it as a situation where one parent intentionally damages or blocks the child’s relationship with the other parent.
She called the behavior harmful and selfish because children often benefit from healthy relationships with both parents whenever it is safe and appropriate.
Smiley agreed, urging parents to place their children’s emotional well-being above personal disagreements.
“I don’t care how much you dislike the other parent. If you really love your child, you’re going to make sure they have a relationship with their mother or father.”
Their discussion highlighted the importance of cooperation whenever possible, especially during difficult custody disputes.
Attorney Cynthia Hawes Continues Empowering Families Through Legal Education
Throughout the interview, Hawes answered additional questions from listeners about custody agreements, unpaid child support, grandparents seeking visitation, hidden income during child support cases, and mistaken paternity.
By breaking down complex legal topics into everyday language, she gave parents practical information they can use before stepping into family court. Her guidance also reminds families that understanding the legal process can reduce confusion and help them make informed decisions.
For many Black families navigating family law, access to clear legal education can make a meaningful difference. Hawes’ advice encourages parents and caregivers to know their rights, seek legal guidance when needed, and always keep the child’s best interests at the center of every decision.
