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Parentage Lawyer
Providing Clarity in Complicated Family Matters
The lives of children and parents can be greatly affected by paternity issues. When there is a question surrounding the biological father of a child, it can lead to emotional turmoil and legal battles.
There are many reasons why paternity may need to be established, including:
- Child Support
- Custody and Visitation
- Legal Responsibilities and Rights
Having an experienced and knowledgeable paternity attorney by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At Zhamakochyan Family Law, we understand the sensitivity and complexity of paternity matters.
Why Should Unmarried Fathers Consider Establishing Paternity?
Unmarried fathers in California must establish paternity to remain involved in their child’s life in case of a split. For divorcing fathers, paternity is assumed legally. However, if the father was not married or involved in a registered domestic partnership with the mother, the courts do not assume paternity.
In the event of a separation from your unmarried partner, you will not have the following entitlements:
- Seeking child custody
- Requesting visitation rights
- Receiving child support
- Access to the child’s educational and medical records
- Any other parental privileges
How to Establish Paternity in California
Paternity at Birth
Being present at the child’s birth and participating in the California Department of Child Support Services’ Paternity Opportunity Program (POP) is an easy and quick way to establish paternity.
Paternity by Birth Certificate
During the completion of the birth certificate, both parents can voluntarily add the father’s name to the child’s birth certificate. This is another way to establish paternity without going to court.
Declaration of Paternity
If you are not present at the child’s birth but want to establish paternity, filing a Declaration of Paternity is another option. This document must be signed by both parents in front of a witness and petitioned with the court.
Paternity by Court Order
If the mother does not agree that you are the father, you can request a court order to determine paternity. The process may include genetic testing and a court hearing where both parties present their evidence.
Marriage and Parentage
In California, if a child is born within a marriage and the husband has concerns about his biological paternity, he has a two-year window from the child’s birth to address the issue in court. After this period, the court establishes an irrefutable presumption that the husband is the child’s father.
Contact Our Parentage Lawyer for a Consultation Today
The complex legal process of establishing parentage can be daunting and emotionally taxing. Our lawyer at Zhamakochyan Family Law has the experience and compassion to guide you through this process.
Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you secure your legal rights as a father. We are dedicated to providing clarity in complicated family matters and ensuring the best interests of children are protected. Don’t wait, call now to learn more about how we can assist.