I feel the 的 here is optional, because 前面 is indicating a direction/location like 下 or 上 , and those don't typically need it.
Chinese is beautiful...
I've seen 前面 as well as 前边. Is there a difference?
Are these directional phrases also used in an abstract way? Like passing exams, scores on sports etc. X is ahead of Y, W is behind Q, as to their points / results.
does " in front of the father is the son" work?
In that setting I think you'd have to use the 有 structure. 爸爸的前面有儿子?