Why Dads and Moms Move to Establish Paternity

While it may seem like a technicality, formally establishing paternity has many advantages that support both a child’s emotional and financial stability. Whether you are a father seeking visitation time or a mother who wants to obtain genetic information, talk to a Port St. Lucie family law attorney about paternity documentation. Legal professionals are available to assist you in obtaining the life you want for yourself and your kids.

Reasons Mothers and Fathers Seek Paternity Documentation

For many mothers, a primary reason to establish paternity is to secure child support. Once paternity is in place, a mother has the right to seek financial support from the father to help cover costs related to the child’s upbringing. This includes expenses for housing, education, healthcare, and daily living, all of which contribute to a child’s well-being.

Additionally, some moms want to document paternity so they can access the father’s medical history. Certain medical conditions can be hereditary, and having a complete medical history can help doctors make informed decisions if any health issues arise. Plus, by formalizing the father’s role, both parents have a clear understanding of their rights and obligations, which can help in resolving future disputes.

Often fathers seek out legal paternity to have any say in their child’s life decision, giving them the right to participate in important choices affecting their child’s education, medical care, and more. The documentation allows a father to seek custody or visitation rights as well. A legal acknowledgment can build a strong foundation for emotional bonds and stability, both for the father and the child.

3 Ways Paternity Can Be Established

In Florida, there are several avenues for establishing paternity.

• Voluntary acknowledgment. Both parents can sign a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity form that legally recognizes a father when the parents aren’t married. This form can be signed at the hospital at the time of the child’s birth or later at a government office. HOWEVER, this creates a presumption of paternity, it does not establish the division of parental rights, child support or other issues that occur while raising your child. A paternity order from a judge, which occurs at the conclusion of the paternity case, is the only manner in which your parental rights can be unequivocally established short of a marriage.
• Court order. If paternity is disputed, either parent can request a court order. In these cases, the court may require a DNA test to confirm biological paternity. Once confirmed, the court will officially recognize the father’s paternity.
• Administrative order. In some cases, the Florida Department of Revenue can assist with paternity establishment through genetic testing and an administrative order.
• Again, A paternity order from a judge, which occurs at the conclusion of the paternity case, is the only manner in which your parental rights can be unequivocally established short of a marriage.

A Port St. Lucie family law attorney can be a resource for you throughout the paternity process. From filing paperwork to understanding your rights and responsibilities, a lawyer is familiar with all of the legal steps, so you can be sure they are followed accurately.

In cases where paternity is disputed, lawyers can represent your interests in court and help gather any necessary documentation. Family attorneys can also advise on related issues, such as custody and child support, to help both parents establish a fair, supportive arrangement.

Are you in a situation where it would be beneficial to establish paternity? By taking this step, parents can prioritize their child’s future and ensure their legal rights are protected. Talk to the skilled attorneys at Baginski, Brandt & Brandt about your objectives. Contact us to schedule a confidential consultation.