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Founding attorney Eric Boehmer in court.

Understanding Paternity Legalities

Paternity means fatherhood. Establishing the paternity of a child is the process of determining whether a man is or is not a child’s father.

If you have a question about paternity legal issues, please call Boehmer Law to speak with our child custody and family law attorneys, who represent clients in all aspects of paternity cases. Our skilled and knowledgeable paternity lawyers have extensive experience in matters of paternity, and we work hard to see that your interests are fully protected. Our award-winning attorneys are here, ready to fight for you and your rights. Boehmer Law is a law firm you can count on to work hard on your behalf, and we are dedicated to success. Call the family law attorneys at Boehmer Law today at 636-549-8300 to make your free consultation visit with regards to any paternity matters.

Skilled Representation Matters

The laws surrounding the establishment of paternity, as well as its rights and duties, are very complicated. If you have any questions about proving or disproving paternity for a child, please call. Your consultation visit is free and confidential – we will listen to the facts of your case and advise you on what we believe to be the best course of action.

Our clients in these types of cases include:

  • Unmarried men who are being deprived of a relationship or visitation with their children by a mother
  • Mothers who are trying to establish paternity to secure child support
  • Assumed or alleged fathers who refute any biological relation to the child

Our paternity issues lawyers represent and help our clients on all sides of paternity issues. We know the law, we know your rights, and we will fight hard on your behalf because we understand what is at stake.

How Is Legal Status As A Parent Established Through The Court?

A man who believes he is the biological father of a child may file a Father’s Petition for Declaration of Paternity, Child Custody and/or Support (CAFC301) form. The case is filed in a circuit court where the child or co-parent resides or where a case involving the child is already pending. Other interested persons permitted by law and the state of Missouri may also file a petition to establish paternity.

What Happens If I Am Notified That I Am Part Of A Paternity Establishment Case?

Do not ignore a summons or notice. If you do, the court may make decisions without you taking part. After a defendant/respondent has been served, a written response called an “Answer” must be filed within 30 days. The defendant/respondent is then entitled to written notice of future court proceedings.

Warning: If a person does not respond to an action for parentage/paternity, a Paternity Judgment (CAFC370) may be entered ordering that person to pay child support and medical support or reimburse the state or others for support previously provided for the child. A person sued has a right to contest that he or she is a parent of the child and has the right to request genetic testing to prove whether or not he or she is a parent.

Navigating Court Procedures

Keep in mind that establishing paternity gives children who are born outside of a marriage the same rights to benefits and financial support given to children born of a marriage. Determining paternity makes sure that either parent can request child support from the other party. Paternity can also allow a child to be placed on their father’s insurance policy and allow that child to inherit and receive Social Security and Veteran’s benefits on the father’s record if such benefits exist. If a father does not try to legally establish his paternity, he could lose his rights to custody or visitation with his child(ren). He may also lose the right to future legal proceedings that could determine who will care for the child.

Empower Your Paternity Case

For experienced guidance and legal representation in paternity matters, our Boehmer Law team stands ready to advocate for your rights and provide comprehensive assistance. Don’t navigate paternity issues alone – reach out to our dedicated team for a free consultation and secure the support you need to protect your family’s future. Call 636-549-8300 or contact us online to make an appointment.