Helping Florida Parents in their Paternity Case

Fathers are critical to the development of children and their development. The emotional support, the bond between father and child, the lessons handed down all go to growing and building a bond that will help the child navigate life.

Whether you’re seeking to prove paternity, or contesting the claim, we can help you navigate the legal proceedings and help ensure parents and the children get the support they deserve.

Paternity Law in Florida

The law in Florida treats paternity differently depending on if the child is born inside or outside of marriage. Here are some of the common issues around marriage and paternity:

• A child born to married parents is assumed to be the husband’s child.
• The father of a child born outside of wedlock has no immediate legal rights. The mother had 100% of the rights to the child until a judgment of Paternity is entered.
• For children born out of wedlock, the father may be required to pay child support without having tights to visitation, shared parenting time, or child custody until a Paternity judgment is issued.

Making a Claim of Paternity

If you believe you are a child’s father and would like to establish a legal relationship with that child you will need to file a petition with Florida’s Family Courts. In order to do this, you are taking on the parental responsibility of the child.

If you’re unsure the child is yours then we strongly recommend insisting on a DNA test first. If you establish paternity without a test and it is later found that you are not the biological father you could still be required to continue supporting the child.

Talking your options through with a Florida Paternity Lawyer can help you decide the best course of action to take in your case.

Is there a need to hire an attorney for my legal matter?

Not all Family matters should require the assistance of an attorney. However, if you’re here asking, then there is a good chance you’ve reached the point where having a lawyer assist you is necessary.

You can always contact one of our family law attorneys to schedule your consultation. We can help you make the determination on whether legal representation is necessary. With our years of experience and passion for this field of work, we can help you reach the conclusion you and your family deserve. Call Chad Barr Law today at 407-599-9036.