Establishing Paternity in St. Petersburg, Florida
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As a mother, you may find it necessary to establish the biological father of your child. As a father, you may wish to establish that you are the biological father of your child. The laws governing paternity can be confusing. Ensuring that you have the right attorney to handle your case is important.
At the St. Petersburg, Florida, Law Office of Wendy Doyle, P.A., we represent mothers interested in obtaining child support and fathers wishing to establish parental rights. We can guide you through the process of setting up court-recognized methods of DNA testing. Once paternity is established, we can assist mothers with securing child support or fathers in gaining parenting time. Contact us to your concerns about the paternity of your child.
What is Paternity?
Paternity is the legal recognition of a genetic relationship between a father and a child. It establishes legal rights for both the child and his or her father. Paternity may entitle children to financial support from their father. Fathers can then gain child custody and visitation rights.
Whether you are trying to establish paternity or deny it, attorney Wendy Doyle, understands the law. She will discuss your options and work with you to determine realistic outcome goals.
Paternity and Child Support
Once paternity has been established, mothers may seek child support payments and reimbursement for other expenses relating to the care of their children. In addition, documented paternity may entitle a child to coverage under their father's health care plan and inheritance eligibility.
Paternity and Child Custody
Men who have been legally established as the father of a child have rights regarding their offspring. Paternity allows a father to pursue visitation, also known as time sharing. In some situations, fathers may be able to gain custody.
Unwed fathers have an obligation to register with the Putative Father Registry. Failure to do so can bar a challenge to an adoption.
Contact Our Law Office
We are prepared to guide you through the process of establishing your child's paternity and any resulting actions. Contact us today at 727-498-1795 to schedule a free consultation with our knowledgeable lawyer.
Law Office of Wendy Doyle, P.A.
Bank of America Tower
1 Progress Plaza, Suite 620E
St. Petersburg, FL 33701-4323
Telephone: 727-498-1795 | Fax: 727-230-9931