Paternity

Fort Worth Paternity Lawyers

Understanding Paternity Law in Texas

Child support cases in Texas often require the establishment of paternity as a preliminary matter. The requirements for establishing paternity are similar in nearly all states, but there are a few variations in Texas that may affect the process.

At the Law Offices of Mark M. Childress, PLLC, we are extremely familiar with how to properly handle paternity actions in Texas. We represent both men and women in these cases. Our paternity lawyers in Fort Worth will make sure you understand your rights and options throughout your case.

Call (817) 497-8148 now to request a consultation. We represent residents of Tarrant, Parker, Johnson, Wise, Hood, Denton, Somervell, and Jack Counties.

Legal Steps to Establish Paternity in Fort Worth

In Texas, if the mother was married when the child was born, her husband is presumed to be the child's father. However, if the parents were not wed at the time of birth, they must establish paternity through legal processes. A paternity suit may be filed at any time after the child's birth by either the mother or the father of the child.

Our Fort Worth paternity attorneys can guide you through the entire process and help your case to a swift resolution. We have extensive experience in handling paternity cases and will passionately advocate for your best interests.

Initiating a Paternity Suit in Texas

A paternity suit is filed to establish the identity of a child's biological father.

If paternity is disputed, the court may order DNA tests. Depending on the test results, the court will either dismiss the case or make a positive finding as to parentage. Once the biological father is established, any custody and child support arrangements can be made.

Benefits of Legal Paternity Determination

Establishing paternity can have a significant impact on both the child and the parents involved. It is important to legally establish paternity to protect the rights and interests of all parties involved.

Here are some reasons why:

Child support: A legal paternity determination can lead to the establishment of child support payments from the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent.
Legal rights: Once paternity is established, the father has legal rights to visitation or custody of the child.
Medical history: Knowing the biological father can help identify potential health risks for the child and ensure they receive appropriate medical care.
Inheritance: A child has the right to inherit from their biological parents, and establishing paternity ensures they receive their rightful inheritance.

Our Fort Worth paternity lawyers have extensive experience in helping parents establish paternity and ensuring that the child's best interests are protected. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you.

Advocating for Parental Rights in Paternity Cases

Our Fort Worth paternity lawyers are able to handle a variety of paternity cases. For example, say a mother is seeking child support and the purported father denies paternity, we can assist with drafting and filing a lawsuit to determine parentage.

Once paternity has been established, the parties may attempt to agree on the terms of child custody or submit the matter to the court. Oftentimes, parents can even retroactively agree on medical bill or support payments.

At the Law Offices of Mark M. Childress, PLLC, we offer results-driven representation focused on resolving your paternity dispute quickly and effectively. We are committed to protecting your rights at every stage of the process.

Local Resources for Paternity Cases in Fort Worth

When dealing with paternity issues in Fort Worth, you must be aware of the local resources and government entities that can assist you. The Tarrant County Family Law Center in downtown Fort Worth is a key resource for residents needing legal assistance with paternity cases. The Texas Attorney General's Office in Fort Worth also offers child support and paternity establishment services.

Residents of Tarrant, Parker, Johnson, Wise, Hood, Denton, Somervell, and Jack Counties often face unique challenges when it comes to establishing paternity. For instance, navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially if you're unfamiliar with Texas's specific requirements and procedures. Our team at the Law Offices of Mark M. Childress, PLLC, understands these local nuances and is here to help you every step of the way.

One common pain point for Fort Worth residents is the time and stress involved in resolving paternity disputes. Whether you're a mother seeking child support or a father wanting to assert your parental rights, the process can be overwhelming. Our Fort Worth paternity lawyers are committed to making this journey as smooth as possible for you. We offer personalized guidance and support, ensuring you understand your rights and options at every stage.

Another significant concern is the financial burden that can come with legal proceedings. We recognize that many families in the Fort Worth area are worried about the costs associated with establishing paternity and securing child support. Our goal is to provide cost-effective solutions without compromising quality or results. We work diligently to resolve your paternity issues efficiently so you can focus on what truly matters—your family's well-being.

By leveraging our deep knowledge of the Fort Worth area and its legal landscape, we are uniquely positioned to advocate for your rights and achieve favorable outcomes.

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Can You Refuse a Paternity Test?

Ready to establish paternity? Contact our Fort Worth team at (817) 497-8148 for expert guidance.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can a paternity suit be filed after the child is born in Tarrant County?

Yes, a paternity suit can be filed at any time after the child's birth. This allows either the mother or the father to seek a legal determination of paternity, which is necessary for addressing child support, custody, and other parental rights. Law Offices of Mark M. Childress, PLLC, can assist in filing and navigating through this legal process.

How can a Fort Worth paternity attorney assist with child custody and support issues?

A Fort Worth paternity attorney can provide invaluable assistance with child custody and support issues by helping to establish paternity, which is a prerequisite for these matters. Once paternity is confirmed, the attorney can aid in negotiating custody arrangements and child support payments, ensuring that the child's best interests are prioritized and the rights of the parents are protected throughout the legal process.

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