Representing Both Mothers And Fathers In Paternity Actions
At The Lampe Law Office, LLC, in West Chester, our paternity lawyers represent both mothers and fathers in paternity actions and other family law matters. It is extremely important that a party in a paternity action understands his or her rights, in addition to understanding the process of a paternity action.
Establishing Paternity In Ohio
If you are a married father, you are presumed to be the biological and legal father of a child resulting from your marriage, and thus paternity is established. (O.R.C. 3111.03). However, a father who is not married to the mother of his child must establish paternity through a Child Support Enforcement Agency or Juvenile Court Action in order to have parental rights, like child custody and visitation, pertaining to the child.
The process of establishing paternity usually involves a DNA test, which can be performed by drawing blood or by swabbing cheek tissue from inside the mouth. Once paternity has been established, the father of the child will gain parental rights and responsibilities, which include the potential payment of child support to the mother.
What Happens If Paternity Is Not Established?
If paternity has not been established, the mother of the child can make all significant decisions regarding the child without the knowledge or consent of the father. In addition, a father cannot be required to pay child support unless paternity has been established.
Schedule A Consultation With An Ohio Paternity Attorney
To arrange a consultation with a paternity attorney, contact us online or call 513-889-0400. We proudly serve clients throughout the surrounding Butler, Clermont, Hamilton, and Warren County regions.