Paternity suits are filed when a mother has a child but is unsure of his or her true paternity. Establishing paternity is important to the well-being of the child for various reasons, and the state uses paternity cases to determine how the parental relationship will develop. For instance, based on the results of paternity testing, the father of the child may be obligated to enter into child custody and support arrangements with the child’s mother.
Ramifications of Paternity
When a paternity suit is completed, several important decisions regarding a child’s future will be made by the court. These decisions will become legally enforceable as a result of the paternity lawsuits. Establishing paternity can help to resolve the following decisions:
- Who has primary child custody, including physical and legal custody
- Custody and visitation rights and rules
- Geographic restrictions and travel agreement rules
- How much child support is required from the father
These cases are meant to be argued according to the best interests of the child, but they may be influenced by the parents’ legal and financial situations. Because of how important these cases are to a child’s well-being and future, a parent may wish to enlist the help of a reliable attorney to protect his or her rights and those of the child.
Contact Us
If you’re facing an upcoming paternity suit, we may be able to help you through this oftentimes complicated and frustrating legal process. You don’t need to face this difficult legal action on your own. For more information about how to prepare for paternity suits and other types of legal action, contact an attorney from Diggs & Sadler by calling 713-766-5355 today.