Paternity Attorney in Washington, D.C. Assisting Fathers With All Manner of Paternity Issues

Paternity issues can be a source of contention for many men. Sometimes, a man believes himself to be the legal father; however, the mother may deny it. Conversely, some men who are named potential fathers strongly deny the claim.

The District of Columbia has laws in place that deal with paternity issues. In today’s modern world, establishing parentage is as easy as taking a DNA test. However, there are also legal obligations that accompany paternity.

If you wish to establish paternity, one of the first steps you must take is to hire a knowledgeable attorney who can advise you of your rights and help you navigate the legal process.

If you would like to meet with our experienced paternity lawyer, contact The Father’s Rights Firm of Washington, D.C., to schedule a strategy session. We will gladly review your case and advise you of your legal options.

How is Paternity Established in the District of Columbia?

In the District of Columbia, if a man and a woman are married, the husband is the presumed father. However, when a couple is unmarried, the mother retains full custody. However, there are two ways that paternity may be established which are:

•  Acknowledgment of Paternity form (AOP): An Acknowledgment of Paternity is a legal document identifying the child’s father. The most common method of completing the AOP is for both parents to sign it at the hospital or birthing center after the child is born. Because the form must be notarized, someone on staff can complete this action and then file it with the Vital Records Division of the Department of Health. Alternatively, go to the Vital Records Division or the Child Support Services Division and sign the form there.
•  Court-ordered DNA testing: If there is a dispute about the biological father or the mother refuses to disclose the father’s name, the case can be taken to court. The paternity action may be initiated by the child’s mother, the man who believes or has been identified as the father, or the D.C. Child Support Services Division. The father’s name will be placed on the birth certificate if paternity is established.

If you would like more information about initiating a paternity order, contact The Father’s Rights Firm of Washington, D.C., today and ask to schedule a meeting with our experienced attorney.

What Happens if I Want to Challenge Paternity?

In some instances, an individual who has been named the father disputes they are the child’s parent. The mother can take the case to court through the Child Support Service Division (CSSD). The CSSD will assist them in filing a petition that names the individual they suspect to be the father.

Once the paternity case goes to court, the mother and the individual alleged to be the father must appear before the judge. At this point, the individual who has been named as the father has the option of acknowledging or denying parentage. If the individual denies paternity, the court may order a paternity test. If the DNA test successfully proves that he is the legal father, the court will issue an order establishing paternity.

The CSSD would now pursue child support payments from the father. If the father agrees, then visitation rights could also be pursued. However, a man has the legal option of not pursuing a relationship with a child even if he has been named the father.

Why is it Important to Establish Paternity?

Some individuals may question why it is important to establish paternity with a child. They argue they have a relationship with their child and do not see the need for legal action. Nevertheless, there are many reasons why it is vital to establish paternity which include:

•  Paternity establishes a legal connection between the father and child.
•  Assists fathers in asserting their rights in child custody cases.
•  Allows fathers the legal right to pay child support and have visitation with the child.
•  Paternity is often required to provide health insurance for the child.
•  Gives access to the father’s medical history.
•  Grants a child the right to inherit property from the father’s estate.
•  Paternity allows the child to receive Social Security benefits should the father become disabled or passes away.

Additionally, establishing paternity has been proven to help children stay in school, avoid criminal activity, and become responsible adults. Contact our law offices if you would like to learn more information about the benefits of establishing paternity.

Why Do I Need an Attorney to Help Me With Paternity Legal Issues?

Not only can paternity legal issues be challenging to try and navigate on your own, but it can also be emotionally draining. For this reason, it is in your best interest to hire an attorney who can act as your legal ally and help you through every step of the legal process.

Our law firm recognizes this may be overwhelming for you, especially if you have been denied access to your child. However, The Father’s Rights Firm is passionately committed to helping fathers obtain their legal right to be involved in their children’s lives.

Our highly skilled attorney will work with you and stand by your side every step of the way. If paternity is established and visitation is granted, but the mother does not want to cooperate, we can also help you file a petition with the court. If the mother does not adhere to the visitation schedule, she could be found in contempt of court and ordered to pay a fine or even spend time in jail.

If you would like more information about establishing paternity, contact The Father’s Rights Firm in Washington, D.C., at 1-877-CUSTODY to schedule a strategy session.