Standing Up For Fathers’ Rights
In Georgia, if a child is born to a married couple, the man is presumed to be the father. If parents are not married, however, the father must take formal steps to establish paternity. Whether you are a father who needs to establish his custodial or visitation rights or a mother who needs to establish her right to receive support from her child’s father, a lawyer can provide invaluable guidance.
At Lise S. Kaplan, LLC, in Macon, we represent fathers and mothers throughout Middle Georgia. With more than 30 years of experience in the full range of child custody and family law matters, you can count on us to give you the information you need to make educated decisions about your situation. We will stand by you and provide crucial insight.
Establishing Fathers’ Rights And Paternity
Many fathers believe that if their name is on the child’s birth certificate, then they have been formally recognized as the father. If the parents are not married, this is not true. Unmarried fathers must establish rights to the child. Once a child is legitimated, the father can establish custodial and visitation rights to the child, including a visitation schedule. Our attorneys can analyze your case and let you know of any obstacles you may need to overcome to achieve your objectives.
Unmarried mothers may need to establish paternity to hold the father financially responsible for his child. While a paternity action is usually fairly straightforward, it is important to have a lawyer review your case. We work with mothers in establishing paternity and dealing with any issues that may arise with support, parenting plans and more.
Understanding Paternity Laws In Georgia
In Georgia, determining legal paternity allows for parental rights, including custody and visitation, and helps ensure the child has access to financial support, inheritance and benefits.
Whether you are a mother seeking child support or a father aiming to assert your rights, understanding paternity laws is the first step. Lise S. Kaplan, LLC, can guide you through this complex process.
Steps To Establish Paternity
Establishing paternity can be done voluntarily or through legal action. If both parents agree on the father’s identity, they can sign a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity at the hospital or through state agencies.
However, if there is a dispute, either parent can request genetic testing and file a petition with the court. Our attorneys can help you file the necessary paperwork, represent you in hearings and have the child’s best interests prioritized.
Challenges And Common Misconceptions
Some believe that being listed on a birth certificate is enough to grant parental rights, but this is not true in Georgia. Without legal paternity, fathers cannot seek custody or visitation.
Additionally, mothers may hesitate to establish paternity due to fears of custody battles or financial obligations. Lise S. Kaplan, LLC, can help dispel myths and address concerns to create solutions that work for all parties involved.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paternity In Georgia
Below are some commonly asked questions to help you better understand paternity laws in Georgia.
How can establishing paternity benefit my child and me?
Establishing paternity can provide your child with financial support, health insurance, inheritance rights and a relationship with both parents. For fathers, it secures the right to seek custody and visitation, strengthening their role in the child’s life.
Can a father obtain custody or visitation rights without establishing paternity?
No. In Georgia, fathers must establish legal paternity to seek custody or visitation. Without it, fathers have no enforceable parental rights, regardless of their involvement in the child’s life.
What happens if the mother disputes paternity?
If paternity is contested, the court may order genetic testing. If the results confirm biological paternity, the court will issue an order establishing legal paternity and may address custody, visitation and child support.
Are there time limits for establishing paternity in Georgia?
Paternity can generally be established at any time before the child turns 18. However, it is best to address paternity issues early to avoid complications regarding custody, support and inheritance.
Talk To An Experienced Attorney Now
Lise S. Kaplan, LLC, in Macon, Georgia, is a family law firm that will help you in establishing fathers’ rights. With more than 30 years of legal experience, we can help. Please call 478-207-5124 or email us to get started.