Florida fathers often face obstacles when trying to co-parent their children. A paternity lawyer is able to help. Paternity lawyers are experts in helping fathers navigate the complicated laws and processes that can arise regarding paternity.
The Top Reasons You Need a Paternity Lawyer To Represent Your Case
1. To file a proper paternity action
All documentation required in a paternity case must be available to the judge. The legal grounds must also be supported by appropriate wording in the documents. An experienced paternity lawyer is familiar with the various types of documentation required to prove a case.
2. To Protect Your Rights in a Divorce
Divorces can be very difficult for all members of the family. It can be very difficult for the whole family, and even more emotional and financially stressful if there are children involved. Communication can become very strenuous and even confrontational which is not in the best interests of either side during a divorce. As your point of contact regarding legal issues related to your divorce, we can provide a strong voice and support for your needs. As your advocate and personal lawyer throughout the process, a family lawyer will work with you to protect your rights in a divorce.
3. To ensure fairness in determining parental responsibility
There are many factors that influence parental responsibility. Based on the facts and circumstances surrounding the family, the judge will determine which parent is responsible for the child(ren). Important to remember that the parent with the primary parental responsibility will be able to make important decisions about the child’s life, such as education and medical care.
4. To ensure fairness in determining timesharing
A paternity lawyer can also help you with timesharing. Your attorney will do everything possible to ensure fairness, regardless of whether you are chosen to have primary custody. Timesharing will be decided if you do not have primary custody. This includes weekends, holidays, summer breaks from school, as well as other events. These contracts are usually long-term and it is important to have a family lawyer during this crucial time.
5. To advocate on your behalf during child support determination
Fairness is important for parental responsibility and when child care is being established. This includes financial support for food and shelter, as well as educational requirements, medical needs, and other necessities. The judge is trying to protect the best interests and needs of the child(ren), so there are certain calculations that will determine the final outcome for child support. A paternity lawyer can be your advocate throughout the process, giving you the assurance that the funds amount will be determined fairly and lawfully.
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6. Help with a Proper Modification of a Paternity Order
A modification to the original paternity order may be necessary if there are significant changes in circumstances. One parent may become ill or disabled, and no longer can be the primary caregiver. To request a modification to a paternity orphanage order, the request must be properly written. A family lawyer who is experienced in paternity cases will be able to help you get the best outcome.
7. Family Law Is Inherently Complex
Because of the complex nature of family law, it is a good idea to hire a paternity attorney to make sure that fathers rights are upheld and that children-related decisions by judges are made with the most accurate and complete information. You get experience, expertise, and a personal advocate to protect your rights when you hire a paternity attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. What happens if the father refuses to acknowledge paternity?
Since paternity tests can be court-ordered, refusing to submit to the test is considered a criminal offense. The alleged father would be held in “contempt of court” until he submits to the requested testing. This can lead to criminal charges being filed against the man and he may also be fined.
Q. How do I prove paternity in the US?
DNA testing is the best way to determine or prove the biological relations between a father or mother and a child. Also, if the father or mother is unavailable or unwilling, you can perform a sibling, grandparent, or even an aunt/uncle avuncular test.
Q. Can a man request a paternity test if the mother doesn’t want it?
So, yes you can refuse to undertake a paternity test, but a father can still perform a home Peace of Mind test without the mother’s DNA. If a mother refuses to determine paternity for legal reasons, a court can order a paternity test be carried out.
Q. Can a father refuse a DNA test?
Yes. The possible father of a child does have the right to refuse a court-ordered DNA test, however he will experience legal consequences for doing so. DNA testing is typically considered a civil lawsuit and the judge can try to force the possible father to provide a sample to a Ministry of Justice Approved laboratory.
Q. Do hospitals do DNA test at birth?
Yes, testing can be done as soon as the baby is born. Once the new arrival has been checked over by medical staff, a sample can be taken for a paternity test
