Los Angeles Paternity Lawyer
Helping Parents Establish Paternity in California
At Lavinsky Law, our paternity attorneys in Los Angeles are committed to helping individuals navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding these matters in California. Whether you are a mother seeking child support or a father looking to establish your parental rights, we are here to guide you through the process and protect your interests.
Call Lavinsky Law today at (310) 929-6411 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our paternity attorney in Los Angeles.
What is Paternity?
Paternity refers to establishing a legal relationship between a father and a child. This legal recognition is essential for several reasons, including child custody, visitation rights, and financial support. Establishing paternity is not only beneficial for the child but also for both parents involved.
When paternity is established, the child gains the legal right to financial support, inheritance, and additional benefits from their father. Moreover, fathers who establish paternity can enjoy the privilege of participating in important decisions related to their child's upbringing, such as education and healthcare.
Establishing Paternity in California
In California, there are multiple ways to establish paternity, and our skilled paternity lawyer is well-versed in these processes. The three primary methods for establishing paternity are:
- Voluntary Declaration of Paternity (VDOP): This is one of the simplest ways to establish paternity in California. When a child is born, both parents can sign a VDOP form acknowledging the child's biological father. This form is typically signed at the hospital, but it can also be signed later at the local child support agency, family court, or the Department of Child Support Services. It's crucial to understand that once the VDOP is signed, it becomes legally binding, and it may be challenging to change or contest it later.
- Court Order: When a VDOP is not an option or when there are paternity disputes, either parent can seek a court order to establish paternity. The court may order DNA testing to determine biological parentage, and once paternity is confirmed, it is legally recognized.
- Marriage: If the child's parents are married when the child is born, California law assumes the husband is the legal father, and paternity is established. However, if there is doubt about the husband's biological relationship to the child, they can seek a court order for DNA testing to establish or refute paternity.
How Long Does a Father Have to Establish Paternity?
In California, there is no strict time limit for establishing paternity. It can be done shortly after the child's birth, during the child's upbringing, or even after the child has reached adulthood. However, it is important to note that the sooner paternity is established, the better it is for both the child and the parents involved.
Establishing paternity early can provide:
- A stable foundation for the child's upbringing.
- Allowing for financial support.
- Access to medical records.
- The emotional connection that comes with knowing both parents.
Waiting too long may complicate the process and, in some cases, limit the legal rights of the child and the father.
Contact Our Paternity Attorney in Los Angeles Today
If you are facing paternity issues, whether it's about child support, custody, or visitation rights, don't hesitate to reach out to Lavinsky Law. Our Los Angeles paternity lawyer will work diligently to protect your rights and the best interests of your child. Don't face paternity issues alone – trust Lavinsky Law to be your dedicated legal advocate.
Contact Lavinsky Law today to get started with our Los Angeles paternity lawyer.