Paternity cases can be emotional battles for both parents and children involved. For instance, a father might not know that he has a biological child. In other cases, a child’s mother might seek support from a man who denies that he is the father. Regardless of the circumstances, it is important for anyone involved in paternity proceedings to seek legal advice.
A Connecticut paternity lawyer can help with various legal scenarios involving custody, child support, or visitation rights. If you are looking to establish paternity or wondering how this determination may impact your case, consult an experienced attorney.
When parents are unmarried, the father may need to prove his relationship to the child. If both parents agree, the father can sign a document acknowledging himself as the father. If the parties do not agree, a man who believes he is the child’s father must file forms for a DNA test.
Once a man proves that he is a child’s biological father, the court will likely order him to make child support payments. The purpose of child support is to help a custodial parent financially provide for their child. Although the court might order support payments, this does not guarantee visitation or custody rights for the father.
When a father wishes to spend time with his child or obtain custody, there may be complicated legal disputes if the mother disagrees. A father seeking parental rights should consult a nearby paternity lawyer to help argue his case before the court.
Once a man proves paternity, he can then seek parental rights. Courts review many factors when deciding custody and visitation schedules, but the most important consideration is what is in the best interests of the child. A seasoned paternity lawyer can help a Connecticut father build their case. Courts typically favor parenting arrangements that allow children to spend time with both parents.
However, it is important to remember that paternity is no guarantee of custody or even visitation. A parenting schedule must support the best interests of the child, which considers the child’s health, educational and social needs. Fathers should consult a skilled attorney to determine a reasonable schedule for visitation and custody.
If a man suspects that he is a child’s father, he may wish to prove paternity and develop a relationship with the child. On the other hand, a man may also deny that he is the father and wish to avoid paying child support. A mother has the right to request paternity testing if she wishes to prove a man is her child’s biological father.
The state can also order paternity tests in certain scenarios. For instance, the State’s Attorney General can file paternity actions where the mother and child are otherwise relying on state financial assistance.
The outcome of a paternity case can have a tremendous impact on a family. As such, anyone involved in these proceedings should understand their legal rights and the potential impact of paternity test results on their case.
In these complex and often emotional family matters, a Connecticut paternity lawyer can provide crucial guidance. Contact our firm today to speak with a member of our team about your situation.
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