Paternity

      Paternity refers to the biological fatherhood of a child. When paternity has been established, a man is legally recognized as a child’s father. With this title comes parental rights, reserved only for legally recognized parents. The presence of the father’s name on a birth certificate does not equate to parental rights for the unmarried man.

      Whether you are a mother seeking to hold your child’s father accountable for financial support, or you are a father seeking parental rights over your biological child, Kathy C George & Associates can help. We have represented numerous clients who reside in Florida as well as residing in other states in paternity actions. Our paternity attorneys can fight to protect your rights and achieve your goals in this emotional and challenging process in Pinellas County and the surrounding areas.

      When a married woman gives birth in Florida, it is presumed that the woman’s husband is the child’s father. Parental rights will automatically be assigned to the mother’s husband.

      When an unmarried woman gives in birth in Florida, paternity must be established voluntarily or through a court order. If the mother and the father agree that he is the child’s biological father, they can sign a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity form, which will become final after 60 days.

      If either party refuses to voluntarily acknowledge paternity, a court process can be initiated by:

• The mother
• Any man who believes he is the father
• The child
• The government (Florida Department of Child Support Services)

The legal recognition of a father can be extremely beneficial for all parties involved, including the mother, the father, and the child(ren).

By establishing paternity:

• Mothers can receive the appropriate child support payments from their child’s biological father.
• Fathers can exercise their parental rights and enjoy access to their biological children.
• Children can enjoy a relationship with both parents.
• Children can have a better understanding of their family’s medical/health history.

If you are facing a difficult paternity action, be sure to retain legal counsel you can count on. At Kathy C George & Associates, we are committed to compassionately and respectfully representing your best interests every step of the way.

Call now to get started.