Indian Rocks Paternity & Father’s Rights
Understanding Father’s Rights & Responsibilities
When unmarried parents have a child, the father has no legal custody rights unless he asserts them through a paternity action. However, he may still be obligated to pay child support. If you are an unmarried father, protect your parental rights by consulting with an experienced Indian Rocks paternity lawyer.
If you are an unmarried father –or if a woman with whom you had a relationship claims you fathered a child and wants support—prompt, decisive action can be critical. Under Florida’s “Natural Guardian” statute, Fla. Stat. 744.301, the only way to establish legal custody rights and other rights to involvement with your child is to file an action for paternity. All too often, fathers rely on informal agreements to maintain contact with their children and avoid problems with child support. This can lead to serious regrets and financial liabilities.
Assistance Obtaining Paternal Rights
At Emerson Law, P.A., we represent fathers and mothers in paternity actions in Indian Rocks, Florida, and throughout the surrounding region. We help fathers “activate” their rights through paternity actions and help couples establish clear time-sharing and support obligations. By offering honest, upfront counsel, we seek to help you assert your rights and maintain your relationship with your child.
Determining Paternity
In common language, paternity is a test used to determine the biological father of a child. But in a civil law proceeding, it is used to resolve custody and child support issues for unmarried parents. Paternity issues are common in cases involving child support, but can also be a factor in adoption, inheritance, custody, visitation and health care.
If you are asked to pay child support for a child you aren’t sure is yours, it is important to determine paternity now. If DNA testing proves that you are the father, you may be liable for back child support on payments that have not been made. Contact us for more information.
Consultation on Parental Rights with an Experienced Family Lawyer
At Emerson Law, P.A., we are upfront and honest about what parents can expect and help them form realistic goals. Contact us or call us at (727) 855-6587 today for a consultation to discuss your case in more detail with one of our Indian Rocks family law attorneys.
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- Nicholas -
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There’s no question Cody is a talented and dedicated lawyer. I hold him in high regard and will recommend him to anyone going through a divorce. Not only did he take over my case and accomplish more in a month than a whole year; he kept my mind at ease and helped me make some tough decisions. He’s extremely detail oriented and amazingly smart. I’m so grateful for all he’s done for me. If you’re looking for a trustworthy lawyer, he’s your guy!
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