Paternity

If a child's parents were not married to each other when the child was born, the law does not recognize the father unless paternity is legally established. Establishing paternity gives your child the same rights and benefits as children born to married parents, including the following:

• Legal proof and knowledge of the father's identity
• The father's name on the birth certificate
• Information on family medical history in case of inherited health problems
• Benefits from the father's medical or life insurance if available
• The right to financial support, including child support, Social Security, veteran benefits/military allowances, and inheritance

Establishing paternity allows both father and mother to legally do the following:

• Seek a court order for child support
• Seek a court order for custody or visitation
• Have a say in certain legal decisions about the child

Our attorneys understand the legal concerns involved in establishing paternity and are ready to help you. Contact us online or call us at (619) 298-5778 to make an appointment to discuss matters concerning paternity.