Paternity Attorney
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At Ham Law, we understand the critical importance of establishing paternity in family law cases. Legal recognition of a parent-child relationship is not only fundamental for addressing child support, custody, and parental rights but also for securing a child’s future. Our dedicated team is committed to guiding parents through the legal intricacies of paternity, ensuring that both biological parents play a vital role in their child’s life.
The Significance of Establishing Paternity
Under Texas law, a man is presumed to be a child’s legal father under specific circumstances, such as being married to the child’s mother at the child’s birth or living continuously with the child for at least two years. Establishing legal fatherhood is crucial for several reasons:
- Parental Rights and Responsibilities: A legal father has all parental rights and duties, including sharing custody and making essential decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, education, and healthcare.
- Child Support: It obligates the father to provide financial support, ensuring the child’s needs are met.
- Medical History: Access to both parents’ medical histories can be vital for the child’s health care.
- Inheritance Rights: It secures the child’s right to inherit from the father.
- Benefits: The child may be eligible for various benefits through the father, including health insurance, veteran’s benefits, and Social Security benefits.
How to Establish Paternity: A Guide to Legal Recognition with Paternity Attorney Assistance
Paternity can be established voluntarily by both parents signing an acknowledgment form after the child’s birth. However, if there’s a dispute, paternity may need to be established through court proceedings, including DNA testing. This process ensures that the child’s biological father is recognized legally, allowing for the resolution of custody, visitation, and support issues.
Contact Ham Law for Paternity Legal Assistance
Ham Law is here to help you navigate the complexities of paternity and its implications for your family. Whether you’re seeking to establish paternity, require support in securing child support, or need to address fathers’ rights, our experienced Paternity Attorneys are ready to provide the guidance and representation you need. Contact our dedicated Paternity Attorney team today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step towards securing your child’s future.
Is there a statute of limitations on paternity in Texas?
No, paternity suits can be filed at any time, even after the child becomes an adult.
How does a father establish paternity?
Typically, through genetic testing ordered by the court, involving a simple cheek swab.
What rights does establishing paternity provide?
It grants the father the rights and duties of a parent, including participation in child-rearing decisions and regular visitation.
Can a mother withhold a child from the father?
If paternity is established and a custody order is in place, a mother cannot legally prevent the father from seeing the child without court permission.