The rights of an illegitimate child

Q 4: What are rights of an illegitimate child?

A: An illegitimate child deserves the same rights as other Muslim children if his mother is a Muslim woman. Being her own flesh and blood, he assumes rights over her and over those of her relatives whom he may inherit after death. If the mother is dead or there are no relatives, the Muslim community is bound to support him. An illegitimate child shall claim no rights from the adulterer whom the Shari`ah (Islamic law) does not consider to be the legitimate father. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.