Paternity

Paternity Lawyer in Stockbridge, Georgia

Establishing paternity is a pivotal step in safeguarding the rights and responsibilities of both parents and children. At South Atlanta Family Law, we recognize the profound implications of paternity on familial bonds and legal obligations. Our experienced paternity lawyers are dedicated to guiding clients in Stockbridge, GA, and surrounding areas through the intricacies of paternity law. If you're seeking legal assistance on paternity matters, contact South Atlanta Family Law online or give us a call at 404-494-0027.

---

Reasons for Establishing Paternity

There are numerous reasons these parties would pursue establishing paternity. Whether for financial reasons, to forge new relationships or otherwise, when these parties wish to file for paternity, evidence of paternity must be demonstrated.

Paternity is established for the Court in one of three ways. First, when the child is born, the Father has the option of voluntarily signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity. Second, the Father can voluntarily include himself on the child's birth certificate. Last, the parties can participate in genetic testing to confirm the identity of the biological father, which can be ordered by the Court on its own motion or that of an interested party.

There are numerous parties that may need to file for paternity. These parties include:

• Mothers
• The child
• Prospective fathers
• Relatives who act as a guardian and care for the child
• The Department of Human Services on behalf of a child

Methods of Establishing Paternity in Georgia

In Georgia, paternity can be established through several avenues:

Voluntary Acknowledgment

Both parents can sign a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity (VAP) form, affirming the man as the child's biological father. This form is typically completed at the hospital following the child's birth but can also be submitted later.

Administrative Order Based on Genetic Testing

If paternity is disputed, genetic testing can be conducted. A positive result can lead to an administrative order establishing paternity.

Court Order

Either parent, the child, or the Department of Human Services can file a paternity action in court. The court may order genetic testing and, based on the results, issue a paternity determination.

Benefits That Come With Establishing Paternity

Establishing paternity comes with certain benefits. The biological father can have his name added to a birth certificate if it is not done so already. A child may be entitled to receive financial support and Social Security benefits from the father.

Paternity can help caretakers receive child support to help with the care of the child. Fathers can use paternity to continue on towards legitimation, the process in which a father may gain custody, parenting time and visitation rights.

One of the most significant benefits is the possibility to forge a new and lasting father-child relationship.

Challenges in Establishing Paternity

While establishing paternity is beneficial, it can present challenges:

• Emotional Strain: The process can be emotionally taxing for all parties involved.
• Legal Complexities: Navigating the legal system requires expertise to ensure rights are protected.
• Disputed Paternity: Situations where alleged fathers contest paternity can lead to prolonged legal battles.

How South Atlanta Family Law Can Assist

At South Atlanta Family Law, our experienced paternity rights lawyers offer comprehensive services to assist clients:

• Legal Representation: Advocate for clients in court proceedings related to paternity.
• Guidance on Genetic Testing: Facilitate the process of obtaining and interpreting genetic tests.
• Child Support and Custody: Assist in establishing child support obligations and securing custody or visitation rights.
• Dispute Resolution: Mediate between parties to reach amicable agreements outside of court when possible.

Serving Stockbridge and Surrounding Areas

Our firm proudly serves clients in Stockbridge, GA, and the broader South Atlanta region, including:

• Atlanta
• Fulton County
• Henry County
• McDonough
• Stockbridge
• And surrounding areas

Contact South Atlanta Family Law for Assistance in Filing a Paternity Action

Establishing paternity is a significant decision with lasting implications. Whether you're a mother seeking child support or a father asserting your parental rights, our dedicated team is here to support and guide you. Contact our paternity lawyers online or give us a call at 404-494-0027.