Paternity in West Palm Beach
Legal Paternity Services in West Palm Beach and Palm Beach County
Paternity is a legal issue that involves the determination of a child’s biological father, which is confirmed through a genetic (DNA) test. In family law, this often occurs when the mother of a child files suit against a man she believes is the biological father of a child in order to obtain child support. But a man who suspects that he is the biological father of a child can also establish paternity to petition for visitation, and for the right to have an equal say in how the child is raised. Paternity law can be complex and emotional, and for this reason, many people hire an experienced family lawyer to handle all the legal aspects of these cases.
Two Methods of Establishing Paternity
There are two ways that paternity can be established: Voluntary acknowledgement or court-ordered legal process. Voluntary acknowledgement occurs when a man signs a legal form confirming that he is the father of a child and files that form in a family court. Voluntary acknowledgement can be done prior to a child’s birth, at the time of the child’s birth, or at any time after the child is born.
Paternity that is done through a court-ordered legal process typically requires genetic (DNA) testing to determine that the man involved in the petition is indeed the father of a child. It’s important to remember that in a paternity suit, the state can order genetic testing even if the man involved in the suit refuses to submit to the test.
Who Can File A Paternity Claim?
Under Florida law, a paternity claim can be filed by:
- The mother of the child
- A man who believes he is the biological father of a child
- The child – typically the claim is filed by a family lawyer
- Florida Department of Revenue Child Support Program
Why Is Establishing Paternity So Important?
A woman who files a paternity suit against a man is usually seeking some type of child support to help take care of that child’s need. Without establishing paternity, the woman filing the claim would not have any legal standing to compel the man involved to pay child support. Furthermore, paternity would also entitle the child to inheritance from the father’s estate, and may entitle that child to additional benefits if the father is a military veteran or is disabled.
For a man who suspects he is the biological father of a child, paternity would provide him with the legal means to petition for visitation rights, have a voice in how the child is raised, or to even file for custody. Family court judges base all of their paternity decisions on what is in the best interests of the child, so they may decide that the opportunity for a child to have a relationship with the biological father is beneficial.
What Our Clients Have to Say
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"You can too trust him!"I am using Eric for the second time, he saved this child the first time when she needed it the most. I know God’s will placed him in my life and when an incident came up again I didn’t hesitate to call Eric Cheshire. He is a Godly Man that gets at the truth to help in the best way he can with the will of God. I trust him with the most precious gift God gave me, you can too trust him.- Former Client
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"A true gentleman and professional!"As a woman of God, I would never have dreamt I needed Eric and his firm’s services. Fortunately, it was one of my better decisions. For his professionalism and kind heart made me feel that I was not in this alone. He was walking with me during the entire ordeal and I am very blessed to have a Christian man such as himself to guide me and explain everything to me. A true gentleman and professional! Thanks Eric!- Former Client
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"He genuinely cares!"Mr. Cheshire is one of the good guys. He genuinely cares about his clients and what is important to them.- Former Client
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"I am so thankful to have found someone who was so knowledgeable and considerate."As you might imagine this was a difficult time in my life. I am so thankful to have found someone who was so knowledgeable and considerate to help me through my divorce.- Former Client
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"Will hire him again if I ever need an attorney for my legal needs"I’ve used Eric Cheshire, PA over the years for my divorce and he handled it in an understanding but prompt manner. I’ve recommended him to other family and friends and they’ve been elated with his representation also. Will hire him again if I ever need an attorney for my legal needs.- Former Client
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"Great Service!"Great Service! He was kind, understanding and easy to work with.- Former Client
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"Eric fought for our family to be together."Very nice and helpful. Give my husband his legal rights as a father to be able to see his son. Eric fought for our family to be together and he always checked in with us to see how things were going. I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer and family man. He loves his family and he loves his clients too.- Former Client
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"Very grateful!"Atty Cheshire reviewed the case carefully with my daughter and communicated with other lawyers in Missouri where she lives. We spoke with him to give other pertinent info and he kept us posted. He spent we suppose several hours on her case which helped prevent some financial pitfalls on her part. My daughter and us parents are very grateful for his foresight and timely advice. We highly recommend Atty Cheshire. (Reviewed from a potential client who consulted with Attorney Cheshire).- Former Client
What Happens After Paternity Is Established?
After paternity is established, the court will order the parents to create a Parenting Plan, which is an agreement regarding major issues such as child support, child custody, visitation and how major decisions about the child’s life will be decided.
If the parents cannot create an agreement, the court will order them to undergo mediation with a neutral third party to resolve their differences. If mediation fails, the case proceeds to trial.
Help For Complex Legal Issues
Paternity doesn’t end after confirmation is made through a genetic test. In fact, the most challenging aspect of paternity law is creating a parenting plan that all sides find fair. That is why an experienced family law firm can provide legal expertise to help you navigate through the challenges of paternity. If you need help in a paternity case, please contact The Law Office Eric C. Cheshire, P.A. at (561) 677-8090 for a legal consultation.