Did You Have A Child Out Of Wedlock?
Protect Your Parental Rights With A Paternity Attorney In Spring Hill, Florida
When it comes to parental rights, Florida law states that a married woman’s husband is the father of her child, whether he’s the biological father or not. If you’ve fathered a child out of wedlock, you need a paternity attorney to help you file for parental rights.
You can meet with a paternity attorney to discuss your situation at the Law Office of Karen C. Ozyjowski, P.A., in Spring Hill, Florida. I can explain Florida’s paternity law and help you get started on the legal process, whether that’s an agreement signed by both parents or DNA testing to prove fatherhood.
Fight for your parental rights by hiring a paternity attorney today.
Frequently Asked Paternity Questions In Florida
Do you have questions about paternity laws in Florida? I would be happy to provide answers based on my own experience, starting with some of the most common questions I receive at my firm:
How much does it cost to establish paternity in Florida?
It depends on the tactic that is used to establish paternity. For instance, a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity form has to be notarized, but this will typically just cost around $10. If you have to file a paternity action in a local court, though, then you may need to pay a $300 fee, or something in this range – it can vary from court to court. If you then need to take a paternity test at a lab, your cost could increase and may reach as much as $1,500. This is the most expensive option, but modern DNA testing is over 99% accurate, so it is a reliable way to establish paternity.
Is there a time limit to establish paternity in Florida?
Anyone who has a minor child can establish paternity at any point. Once a child has reached the age of majority (18), the law only allows another four years to initiate a paternity action. Once a child reaches 22 years of age, the court will generally not allow paternity actions to proceed.
Can a mother prevent a father from establishing paternity in Florida?
No. There are certainly cases where biological parents do not cooperate or will not sign certain forms. However, if the father petitions the court and obtains a court order for a paternity test, both parties must comply with it. The mother cannot prevent the case from moving forward.
What documents do I need to file a paternity action in Florida?
I can help you determine exactly what forms you will need, starting with a Petition to Determine Paternity. Other common documents include a Certificate of Compliance with Mandatory Disclosure, a Family Law Financial Affidavit, a Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act affidavit and documentation relating to Social Security numbers.
If you still have further questions about the process or the specific documentation you will need to use in your case, I would be more than happy to answer them at your initial consultation.
Team Up With An Experienced Attorney
I have been practicing law for over 20 years. I have the experience and knowledge to provide legal counsel for your unique situation. You can expect an honest assessment of your case, direct and transparent communication and advice on how to navigate Florida’s paternity law.
Make an appointment by calling me at 352-725-7002 today, or by completing my online form.