Fathers and mothers both play an important role in a child’s life. Yet many children have never spent time with their father and may not know his name or anything about him. For these children even knowing who their father was can give them a sense of belonging within a family and a culture. A child with knowledge of his biological family’s medical history can make informed decisions about his own health. A paternity suit can be the legal tool that gives a child his father back.
A paternity lawsuit may be filed when the fatherhood of a child is in question. This lawsuit may be filed by the mother of the child, the alleged father, or a legal guardian on behalf of a minor age child. In situations where paternity is questioned, and an individual maintains or denies that he is the father, that individual is legally known as the putative father.
A biological father has the right to spend time and have a relationship with his child. He also has the responsibility to provide financially for his child. If a man admits paternity, it is a role he assumes for life. In a situation where a man was married or lived with the child’s mother and does not believe he is the child’s father he can launch a paternity law suit and the court will rule.
In situations where a child is born and the mother is raising the child alone, she may ask for child support from the child’s father. If the relationship was casual or either partner was married to someone else, during that time, there may be questions as to paternity. Although the mother may feel certain of the child’s paternity, the other partner may be unsure. When paternity is in question, the court will decide.
Evidence of Paternity
Modern science and DNA testing has been a boon to providing paternity evidence and results that are admissible in court. DNA is a molecule unique to each individual human being. A child’s DNA is made up of a combination of DNA from his biological parents. Blood samples or cheek swabs are collected from the child, the mother and the alleged father. These samples are used for testing DNA matches. DNA testing is highly accurate and provides the necessary evidence proving whether or not the alleged father is the biological parent.
A father’s support and presence is important for all of us. The rights and responsibilities of fatherhood last a lifetime and are not to be taken lightly. Biological fathers have legal rights and responsibilities involving the care and support of their children. When paternity is in question, a paternity lawsuit can be filed, and the details sorted out by the court. DNA testing is an important part of the final ruling. If you have questions or issues involving the paternity of a child, Hilbing Paternity Lawyers can answer any questions you may have.
Hilbing Law Firm is sensitive to the complex issues involved with paternity suits. Each situation is unique; all are handled with consideration and respect.
Call The Hilbing Family Lawyers at 905-264-7155.