Parents play an important role in the growth of a child. They nurture the child’s well-being; provide for physical, mental, and emotional needs of the child, among others; and help mold dreams and aspirations. It is important, therefore, that a child’s parents support a child or, in the least, be identified. A father contributes to strengthening a child’s self-knowledge and cultivating the sense of identity, so it is for the child’s best interest to establish paternity action if it has not been formerly made.

Paternity establishment, in this regard, is a crucial matter which needs to be addressed immediately. This action is normally done when a couple has a child outside of marriage. In order for a person to be recognized as a child’s father, filing a Petition to Establish Parental Relationship of a Child has to be formally made; this could be done by either of the parties involved. In some cases, there may be disputes that can occur, especially if one party challenges the claim. In this regard, a DNA test has to be conducted. After the courts approve the request and paternity has been made legal, it is only then that discussions and decisions about parental responsibility, child support, and visitation can be made.

Settling paternity issues gives the child a lot of benefits. Aside from the psychological advantages, the child also earns legal benefits, such as the payment of child support if it has been mandated by the court. This would help pay for the child’s needs through growing-up years, such as medical bills, healthcare, food, education, and others. Paternity establishment also gives a father a right to custody and visitation.

Paternity in Fort Myers, Florida

When it comes to expert paternity law advice in Fort Myers, Florida, Atty. Eve McClurg can help. She is a licensed family law attorney in Southwest Florida and has represented and defended cases which involved the Department of Children and Families, the Department of Corrections, the State Attorney’s Office, and others institutions. Attorney Eve McClurg is familiar with the Florida system and has the legal background to help you create equitable resolutions to protect you and your children’s interests. For paternity in Charlotte, Lee, Collier, Florida, and all other surrounding Southwest Florida areas, contact the Law Office of Eve McClurg today at 239-334-4383.