Paternity cases are often emotionally charged and legally complex, requiring the guidance of experienced Family Law Attorneys who maintain heart for Clients and go the extra mile. At The Marks Law Firm P.A., our team of dedicated Family Law and Divorce Attorneys in Orlando, Florida, understands the sensitive nature of Paternity matters and is committed to providing compassionate yet effective legal representation to our Clients.
If you find yourself facing a Paternity dispute, whether you’re a mother seeking to establish paternity for Child Support or a father looking to assert your Parental Rights, it’s crucial to understand the steps involved in navigating the legal process. Here’s a brief overview of steps you may want to consider:
- Consultation with an Attorney: The first step in any Paternity case is to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable Family Law Attorney. During this initial meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your circumstances, ask questions, and learn about your rights and options under Florida law.
- Filing a Paternity Petition: In a situation where Paternity has not already been established, either parent can initiate the process by filing a Paternity petition with the Court. This legal document formally requests that the Court determine the biological father of the child and address related issues such as Timesharing (formerly known as Child Custody) and Child Support.
- Genetic Testing: In many cases, establishing Paternity requires genetic testing to conclusively determine the biological relationship between the alleged father and the minor child. The Court may order DNA testing for all parties involved, typically through a simple and non-invasive cheek swab.
- Negotiation or Litigation: Once Paternity is determined, the parties may need to negotiate (through Mediation or the Collaborative Process) or litigate through the Court, other issues such as parental responsibility, Timesharing, and Child Support. Our Family Law Attorneys are skilled negotiators who strive to achieve peaceful and amicable resolutions whenever possible, especially where minor children are involved. We are also prepared to zealously advocate for our Clients’ interests in Court if necessary.
- Finalizing the Case: If the parties are able to reach agreements on all relevant issues, those agreements can be formalized into a legally binding Parenting Plan and Child Support order. If Litigation is required, the Court will issue a Final Judgment addressing the disputed issues based on the evidence presented.
Navigating a Paternity matter can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. The Marks Law Firm P.A. is here to provide the guidance and support for our Clients every step of the way. It is our Mission: “To Honor God and Faithfully Represent our Clients with Great Leadership, Attitude, Excellence and Teamwork.”
To schedule an initial consultation, call our office at 407-872-3161.
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