Family Law
Paternity
re: Paternity
Establishing paternity is about more than biology—it’s about creating legal rights, responsibilities, and a meaningful relationship between a child and both parents. Whether you’re a mother seeking support or a father seeking involvement, we help you navigate the paternity process with clarity and compassion
Why Establish Paternity?
In Florida, when a child is born to unmarried parents, legal paternity must be established before the court can enter orders for:
- Child support
- Timesharing (custody and visitation)
- Parental decision-making rights
- Health insurance and medical access
- Name changes or birth certificate updates
Until legal paternity is established, the biological father may have no enforceable rights—and the mother may not have access to court-ordered support.
Ways to Establish Paternity in Florida
There are several ways to legally establish paternity in Florida:
- Voluntary Acknowledgment: Both parents sign a form at the hospital or later affirming paternity.
- Court Order: Either parent can file a petition with the court to determine paternity.
- Genetic Testing: A DNA test may be ordered if paternity is disputed.
- Administrative Process: In certain cases, the Florida Department of Revenue may initiate paternity proceedings for support purposes.
We guide clients through each of these paths and help protect your parental rights and interests at every step.
Legal Rights That Come with Paternity
Once paternity is legally established, both parents can:
- Seek a timesharing (custody and visitation) schedule
- Petition for or enforce child support
- Participate in important decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, and well-being
- Create a structured, stable parenting plan in the child’s best interest
We represent both mothers and fathers in paternity actions, working to create fair and balanced outcomes that protect the child while respecting your rights.
Paternity Is the First Step—We’ll Help with What Comes Next
Establishing paternity often opens the door to additional legal matters, including creating a parenting plan, modifying support, or addressing co-parenting challenges. We’re here to support you before, during, and after the court process.
Ready to establish or challenge paternity?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the guidance you need to protect your family and your future.
FAQ
Can I get child support without establishing paternity?
No. In Florida, paternity must be legally established before the court can order child support.
Do I have to go to court to establish paternity?
Not always. If both parents agree, paternity can be established voluntarily without a court hearing. If there’s a dispute, the court can resolve the matter and may order DNA testing.
If I’m the father, can I get custody or visitation?
Yes. Once paternity is established, you have the right to seek a parenting plan and timesharing schedule—just like in a divorce case. The court decides based on the child’s best interest.
Can paternity be challenged later?
In some cases, yes—but timing matters. If paternity was acknowledged or assumed, you may need to act quickly to contest it. We can help you evaluate your rights and options.