Austin Paternity Lawyer

A paternity investigation is intended to verify whether or not a particular man is a child's father. It usually occurs when someone, usually the child's mother, requests a DNA test for proof that the supposed father of the child is the actual father. This has significant bearing on the father's rights.

Reasons for Requesting a Paternity Test

A woman may choose to request a paternity test if she is in need of monetary assistance in raising a child. Proving the paternity of the father may ensure that the mother receives financial assistance in raising the child. These needs could be anything, from medical bills to daily life needs. Proving paternity could also result in joint custody of the child, in which case the parents have equal authority and participation in the legal and physical upbringing of the child.

A father may also request a paternity test to settle issues regarding child custody and visitation rights. If a father's paternity is questionable, the court may not give him custody or visitation rights. Once the father's paternity has been confirmed (if it was in question), the court can move forward in cementing a parenting plan. A father who requests a paternity test should also realize that once his paternity is confirmed, he will be responsible to financially assist the child's mother with the child's expenses.

Legal Defense: Austin Paternity Attorney

If you would like to file for a paternity test, you should be aware of the options available to you, as well as the responsibilities which will ensue from the test. For divorce situations, the husband is the assumed father of the child. However, if this is questionable, either party may request a paternity test. If the father's paternity is proven, it is possible that he and the mother may receive equal child custody entitlements, even of the parents were never married. Establishing parenting plans can be a stressful situation, and adding paternity testing to the mix may help solve some pertinent issues.

An Austin father's rights attorney from our firm is ready to take on your case. We have experience in paternity rights and the details that surround it, including child support, custody, visitation and other areas. The state of Texas ensures that the court will not show bias toward the father or mother; on the contrary, the court allows equal opportunity for both parents in making child custody and visitation rulings. We can help you with all these matters and more.

Do not hesitate to contact an Austin divorce lawyer today to further discuss your case.