Establishing paternity is essential to securing a father’s legal rights and responsibilities, including custody, visitation, child support, and participation in decisions about a child’s upbringing. Having a legally recognized father can greatly benefit a child’s well-being. A strong relationship with both parents supports healthy emotional development and self-esteem. Additional benefits may include access to inheritance rights, health insurance, Social Security, military benefits, and important family medical history. Establishing paternity also allows a mother to pursue child support and share in the responsibilities of raising the child.
Paternity matters can be sensitive and complex, making experienced legal guidance especially important. Boudreau Law Firm provides compassionate and knowledgeable representation to help parents understand their rights and options. Whether establishing or disputing paternity, Attorneys Gayle Boudreau and Robert A. Sandow bring more than 40 years of combined family law experience to effectively advocate for their clients.
When a child is born to a married couple, the husband is generally presumed to be the legal father. If the mother is unmarried, and both parents agree, the father can sign a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity at the hospital. In cases where paternity is disputed or uncertain, the court can determine parentage through legal proceedings, often involving genetic testing.
Once paternity is legally established, both parents can pursue their rights regarding custody, timesharing, and child support. If the parents reach an agreement, they may submit it to the court for approval. If disagreements arise, either party can request a court hearing, where a judge will determine what arrangement serves the child’s best interests.
In some cases, a man may be incorrectly identified as a child’s father, whether intentionally or unintentionally. New evidence, such as DNA testing, may provide grounds to challenge and potentially terminate legal parental obligations. Florida law may also allow individuals affected by misattributed paternity to seek reimbursement for child support paid under false circumstances. These matters are evaluated individually by the court, and a judge will determine whether ongoing support obligations should continue based on the child’s best interests.
Boudreau Law Firm assists mothers seeking child support, fathers asserting parental rights, and individuals contesting paternity claims. The firm works to resolve these matters through negotiation or litigation when necessary. Their goal is to help ensure that children have the support and involvement of a legally recognized parent who can contribute positively to their lives.
To discuss your options regarding paternity, contact Boudreau Law Firm in Lake City at 386-961-8001. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The firm represents clients throughout Florida’s Third Judicial Circuit.
