Naples Paternity Attorneys
Helping Clients Establish Paternity in Florida
When a child is born to a married couple, the law automatically assumes that the husband is the father. However, when a child is born to an unmarried couple, the father is not automatically recognized as the legal parent. In these cases, paternity must be established before the father can be granted parental rights and responsibilities.
At Long, Murphy & Shemkus, our Naples paternity lawyers can help you establish paternity and protect your rights as a parent. We understand the unique challenges that come with these types of cases, and we are prepared to provide you with the compassionate, personalized legal guidance you need.
Call (239) 232-2208 or contact us online to learn more about our paternity services in Naples, FL.
How to Establish Paternity in Florida
There are several ways to establish paternity in Florida. The method you choose will depend on your unique situation and the specific circumstances involved.
Here are a few ways to establish paternity in Florida:
- Signing a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity: If both parents agree on the identity of the child's father, they can sign a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity. This document is typically signed at the hospital when the child is born, but it can also be signed at a later date. Once the document is signed, the father's name will be added to the child's birth certificate, and he will be recognized as the legal parent.
- Obtaining a court order: If the mother and father do not agree on the identity of the child's father, either parent can file a petition with the court to establish paternity. The court will then order genetic testing to determine whether the man is the biological father. If the test results are positive, the court will issue an order of paternity, and the father will be recognized as the legal parent.
- Getting married: If the parents get married after the child is born, the father will be recognized as the legal parent. In these cases, the parents can sign a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity to add the father's name to the child's birth certificate.
The Importance of Establishing Paternity
Establishing paternity is important for both the mother and the father. For the mother, establishing paternity allows her to seek child support from the father. For the father, establishing paternity allows him to seek custody or visitation rights.
Here are a few reasons why you should consider establishing paternity:
- For the mother: Establishing paternity allows the mother to seek financial support from the father. It also allows the child to access important information about the father's medical history.
- For the father: Establishing paternity allows the father to seek custody or visitation rights. It also allows the child to access important information about the father's medical history.
- For the child: Establishing paternity allows the child to access important information about the father's medical history. It also allows the child to develop a relationship with the father.
How We Can Help
Establishing paternity can be a complex and emotionally challenging process. At Long, Murphy & Shemkus, we understand the unique challenges that come with these types of cases, and we are prepared to provide you with the compassionate, personalized legal guidance you need. Our Naples paternity attorneys can help you understand your rights and options, and we can guide you through each stage of the legal process. We will work closely with you to develop a personalized legal strategy that is tailored to your unique goals and circumstances.
Our paternity services in Naples, FL include:
- Legal guidance: We can help you understand your rights and options, and we can provide you with the information you need to make well-informed decisions about your case.
- Case management: We can handle all of the legal details of your case, including filing the necessary paperwork, scheduling court dates, and representing you in all hearings and proceedings.
- Emotional support: We understand that these types of cases can be emotionally challenging. We will be there to provide you with the compassionate support you need during this difficult time.
Contact Our Naples Paternity Lawyers Today
If you need help establishing paternity, turn to the experienced paternity lawyers at Long, Murphy & Shemkus. We have been serving clients throughout Naples, FL, for over 40 years, and we have a proven track record of success. We are committed to providing our clients with the personalized legal solutions they need, and we will fight tirelessly to protect their rights and best interests.
Call (239) 232-2208 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our paternity attorneys in Naples, FL.