Establishing the father of a child by means of legal action is termed as paternity. Paternity action is important to protect the child’s best interest. It is usually established when an unmarried couple have a child together. For a person to be legally recognised as a child’s father, a Petition to Establish Parental Relationship of a Child needs to be filed by either party if a voluntary acknowledgment cannot be made. It is only after the request has been approved that the court can make decisions on parental responsibility, time sharing, and child support.

Paternity establishment gives a lot of benefits to the child. A child has the right to know his/her father. This knowledge produces a sense of belongingness and strengthens identity. It is vital to perform this action during a child’s early years, in order to prevent some impacts that may later come during adulthood. Paternity action would also enable a child to have knowledge of his/her father’s medical history in order to learn about some medical issues that could have possibly been inherited.

Formally establishing paternity also gives a child legal benefits. Once the court approves the request, the father with have an obligation to pay child support if it has been ordered of him by the court. This is beneficial for the child’s health and can help meet his/her needs. The court can also award child custody or visitation to the father.

An agreement by both parties about the paternity of a child can be resolved outside the courtroom. However, paternity disputes can lead to courts where it can be formally established. If a man denies responsibility for the child and challenges the request, a DNA test can be issued. It is only after the results are released that the court can decide.

Florida laws aim to protect you and your child’s best interest. If you need to take legal action for the paternity of your child, Eve McClurg is an experienced family law attorney in Fort Myers, Charlotte, and Collier and Lee Counties, Florida. Eve McClurg has helped clients during complex family law issues and her expertise and knowledge of Florida law is sure to guide you through this difficult time. Contact The Law Firm of Eve McClurg at 239-334-4383.