What is Paternity?

Paternity is the legal acknowledgment of fatherhood, establishing the biological relationship between a man and a child. It is crucial for determining parental rights and responsibilities.

Paternity Testing

Paternity testing, often done through DNA testing, is a common method to establish paternity with a high level of accuracy. This test compares the child's DNA with that of the alleged father, providing conclusive evidence of the biological relationship.

Rights and Responsibilities

Once paternity is established, the father gains legal rights to have a relationship with the child, including visitation and custody. Additionally, he also becomes responsible for providing financial support to the child through child support payments.

Father-Child Relationship

Establishing paternity is not only important for legal purposes but also for the emotional well-being of the child. It allows the child to have a relationship with their father and to know their family history.

Family Law

Paternity cases often fall under family law, where legal proceedings are handled to establish or dispute paternity. It is essential to consult with a family law attorney to navigate these complex legal matters.