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PATERNITY CASE LAWYER SAN DIEGO: EXPERT LEGAL HELP 

Paternity Laws In California

Why is it Important to Establish Paternity?

Establishing paternity is important because it legally determines who the father of a child is. This helps to provide the child with important benefits such as health insurance, inheritance rights, and access to family medical history. It also gives the father a legal right to be involved in the child’s life, including making decisions about the child’s education and welfare. Establishing paternity also helps to ensure that child support payments are made, which helps to provide for the financial needs of the child. Overall, establishing paternity helps to create a stable and secure environment for the child and protects their rights.

If parties were not married at the time of the birth of a child in California, it is important to obtain a judgment of paternity. Although certain presumptions apply to a father who is listed on a birth certificate or has signed a form acknowledging paternity, without a judgment of paternity, the rights and obligations of each parent are not fully specified. Our paternity case lawyers have specialized experienced in this area of family law.

How Long Does a Father Have to Establish Paternity in CA?

In California, a father has two years from the birth of a child to establish paternity. This means they need to legally acknowledge being the father and take steps to secure their parental rights. If they don’t, they may lose the opportunity to have a relationship with the child.

If a client questions whether or not he is the biological father of a particular child, DNA testing may be requested. The ability to contest paternity or require testing may be lost if not demanded within a certain limited period of time. As part of a judgment of paternity, the San Diego Family Court is empowered to make orders for child custody, child sharing and child support.

It should be noted the Court seals files in paternity cases. Copies of orders or pleadings are released to counsel or the parties only, unless there is a court order to release information.

How Do I Establish Legal Paternity in California?

To establish legal paternity in California, the biological father must sign a voluntary Declaration of Paternity form or a court order must be issued after a paternity lawsuit. This legally recognizes the father as the biological and legal father of the child.

Get Help for Your Paternity Case in San Diego, CA

The Law Offices of Beatrice L. Snider, APC has experience in representing clients in paternity cases brought by both mothers and fathers. If there is a dissolution matter pending, a judgment of paternity can be established in conjunction with the dissolution of marriage, without the need for the filing of a separate action. Call the firm at (888) 860-8544!

Other FAQs About Establishing Paternity in California

Can You Sue for False Paternity in California?

Yes, you can sue for false paternity in California. This means you can take legal action if someone falsely claims to be the father of your child. You can file a lawsuit to seek compensation for damages and to prove the true paternity of the child.

Does Signing a Birth Certificate Establish Paternity in California?

Signing a birth certificate in California does establish paternity, making the father legally responsible for the child. It also gives him certain rights and privileges as a parent. However, if paternity is in dispute, a court may order a DNA test to confirm the biological relationship.

Can You Put a Father's Name On a Birth Certificate Without Him Present in California?

No, a father’s signature is required in California to put his name on a birth certificate. If he is not present, he can sign an Acknowledgment of Paternity form later or have a court order establishing paternity. If he refuses to sign, a court order can be obtained through a paternity lawsuit.

What to Do If a Father Denies Paternity?

If a father denies paternity, the first step is to get a DNA test to determine the biological relationship. If the test confirms that the man is the biological father, the next step is to establish legal paternity through a court process. This will give the child legal rights, such as access to the father’s benefits and inheritance, as well as a relationship with the father.

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