Norfolk Paternity Lawyer

Norfolk Paternity Attorney

Dealing with parentage can be an emotional experience. Paternity can have a huge impact on your child and your family’s future. However, establishing paternity comes with benefits that help secure any issues you may have regarding the child. A Norfolk paternity lawyer can help you establish paternity and navigate the legal landscape of parenting.

Choosing Farias Family Law, P.C.

We at Farias Family Law, P.C., are aware of how delicate and transformative paternity cases can be. We combine in-depth legal knowledge with a customized approach, adjusting our tactics to fit the circumstances of each client.

Our company is based on the principles of honesty, open communication, and unwavering advocacy, which guarantee that you are informed, in control, and supported at every turn. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of child custody, negotiating alimony, divorce, or are involved in a high net worth divorce, we are here to protect your rights. When your child’s future and your well-being are on the line, put your faith in the group that is dedicated to defending them.

Paternity in Massachusetts

Over the past 50 years, the number of children growing up in single-parent households has increased significantly to over 30% in Massachusetts. This means that more than 420,000 children do not have both their biological mother and father in the home, and almost 80% of them do not live with their biological father. This points to a serious need to establish paternity.

In Norfolk, the legal acknowledgment of a child’s biological father is known as paternity. Determining parental rights and obligations, such as child custody, visitation, and child support, depends on establishing paternity. A father lacks enforceable rights over his child in the absence of legally acknowledged paternity, and the child may be denied vital financial assistance and advantages, including Social Security, health insurance, and inheritance rights.

How Paternity is Established

Paternity can be established voluntarily or through a mandatory court order. When both parents agree on the identity of the father, they can do so voluntarily by signing a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Parentage.

This is typically completed at the hospital where the baby is born, but it can also be completed later through the Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and Statistics or at a local city or town clerk’s office, such as the Dedham Town Clerk’s Office in Norfolk County. When this is filed, it is legally recognized by the court in paternity establishment.

If there is any uncertainty or disagreement regarding paternity, it can be established by court interference. One must file a Complaint to Establish paternity with the Family and Probate Court. If necessary, the court will order DNA testing to establish paternity. Once it is determined, decisions can be made regarding child support, custody, and other child-related issues.

Why Establishing Paternity Is Important

One of the main reasons people seek paternity is so there is no question or confusion on who the biological father of the child is, whether it be to establish a healthy relationship with the child or for other reasons.

Some of the main reasons to establish paternity include:

• Emotional benefits: A child knowing both of their parents can have both emotional and psychological benefits on their self-esteem and wellbeing.
• Child support: When a father is legally recognized, he has a financial obligation to support the child.
• Child custody: A legally established father has the right to request child custody and visitation from the court if necessary.
• Insurance benefits: The child may be eligible to receive health benefits from the father.

Without legally establishing paternity, the father has no recognized right to be involved in the child’s life. This is a disadvantage to both the father and the child.

Rights and Responsibilities After Establishing Paternity

Once parenting is established, the father has both rights and responsibilities provided by the law in Norfolk. In addition to the right to petition for custody and the responsibility to financially support the child, as mentioned above, the father also has decision-making rights for the child.

This means that both parents have the privilege of participating in the major life events of the child. The father can have the right to make decisions regarding health, schooling, and religious upbringing.

FAQs

Q: How Long Does a Father Have to Establish Paternity in Massachusetts?

A: Paternity can be established by a father at any time before the child becomes an adult. However, since formal recognition of paternity is necessary for legal rights, including custody, visitation, and child support, it is advisable to move swiftly. In the event of disagreements, the procedure frequently entails bringing legal action and, occasionally, getting genetic testing.

Q: Can I File a Claim Against My Ex for Lying About Paternity?

A: You might have legal remedies if you think you were misled about being the biological father of a child. In certain situations, you may contest paternity or attempt to have an acknowledgment revoked if it was made under duress or deception. Nevertheless, there are tight deadlines, so you need to move fast and speak with a knowledgeable family law lawyer.

Q: What Are Fathers’ Rights in Massachusetts?

A: After paternity is formally recognized in Massachusetts, fathers are entitled to request custody, parenting time, and decision-making authority. Fathers also have a right to participate in important choices that impact their children’s lives, such as healthcare and education. When deciding on custody and visitation schedules, the court considers what is best for the child.

Q: How Much Does a Family Lawyer Cost in Massachusetts?

A: The cost of hiring a family lawyer in Massachusetts can vary significantly based on the case’s complexity, the attorney’s background, and whether a settlement or litigation is reached. Court expenses and consultations with professionals may incur additional charges and many lawyers bill by the hour. Clients are frequently better able to comprehend possible legal costs during initial meetings.

Contact Norfolk Paternity Lawyer

If you’re dealing with a paternity case, you need to have a legal team that is aware of the financial and emotional implications. Our goal at Farias Family Law, P.C., is to support fathers and mothers in defending their children, securing their rights, and creating better futures. Our skilled staff is prepared to support you with empathy and courage, whether you need to prove paternity, request custody, or protect your parental rights.

Take control of your case now, and don’t let these important choices be left up to chance. Contact us today to get started and begin securing a better future for your family.