Establishing and Protecting Parental Rights through Paternity
Establishing paternity is a crucial step for unmarried parents to secure their rights and responsibilities towards their children. At Law Office of Michael L. Fell, we provide compassionate and effective legal assistance for all paternity-related matters. Whether you are seeking to establish paternity or contest a paternity claim, our experienced team is here to guide you through the legal process with care and expertise. Contact us now at 949-585-9055 for a free legal consultation.
Importance of Establishing Paternity
Paternity must be legally recognized for parents to have the full spectrum of rights and responsibilities toward their children. While married fathers automatically receive paternity rights for children born during the marriage, unmarried parents need to take additional legal steps. Establishing paternity benefits both the parents and the child by enabling custody and visitation rights for the father and securing child support, insurance coverage, and other benefits for the child.
Voluntary Declaration of Paternity
The simplest and most straightforward way for an unmarried father to establish paternity is by signing a voluntary declaration of paternity. This can be done at the time of the child’s birth or later with legal assistance. By signing this document, both parents agree on the father’s paternity and waive the right to contest it in the future. Our attorneys can assist you in understanding the implications of this declaration and ensure that it is properly executed.
Paternity Litigation
In cases where there is a dispute over paternity, the issue may need to be resolved through the court system. Whether you need to establish paternity or contest a claim, having skilled legal representation is crucial. Our team at Law Office of Michael L. Fell will guide you through every step of the process, including:
- Filing or Responding to Paperwork: We assist in preparing and filing all necessary legal documents or responding to documents filed against you.
- Gathering Evidence: This may include DNA testing and other relevant evidence to support your case.
- Court Appearances: We represent you in all court hearings, presenting evidence and arguments to achieve the best possible outcome.
Custody and Support Agreements
Once paternity is established, it is essential to secure custody and support agreements that reflect the best interests of your child. At Law Office of Michael L. Fell, we work diligently to help you negotiate fair and comprehensive agreements regarding child custody and child support. Our goal is to ensure that these agreements provide stability and security for your child while respecting your parental rights.
Modifying Existing Orders
Life circumstances can change, necessitating adjustments to existing custody or support orders. We assist with modifying these orders to reflect your current situation accurately, ensuring that the needs of your child are continually met.
Protecting Your Parental Rights
Navigating paternity issues can be complex and emotionally challenging. Our experienced team is dedicated to protecting your parental rights and ensuring that you have the legal support needed to address these issues effectively. We provide personalized legal strategies tailored to your unique circumstances, helping you achieve the best possible outcome for you and your child.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you have questions about a paternity case or need legal assistance, contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at 949-585-9055. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your situation and explore how we can support you. Our team is committed to providing top-quality advice and representation in all parental rights cases, ensuring that your interests and your child’s well-being are protected.