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At Jorge L. Gonzalez Law, we understand that questions about a child’s legal parentage, or paternity, can be very important and sometimes complicated. Our experienced team is here to help you understand Florida’s laws and guide you through the process, whether you’re trying to prove who a child’s father is or dispute it.

What is Paternity?

Paternity is about being a child’s legal parent. For children born during a marriage, the husband is typically considered the legal father. However, if parents are not married, legal steps are often needed to establish paternity.

This process gives both the child and the parents important rights. For the child, it can mean:

• Knowing their family medical history.
• Getting financial support and health insurance from both parents.
• Access to benefits like Social Security or military allowances.
• A stronger sense of belonging and identity.

For a parent, establishing paternity means:

• Having the right to be involved in important decisions about the child.
• Being able to seek child support or time with the child.
• Building a full relationship with their child.

Without a legal father, the mother is often considered the child’s only legal guardian, with full parental responsibility over decisions and care.

How Paternity is Confirmed

Establishing who a child’s legal father is can happen in a few ways:

• Agreement: Parents can sign a legal paper together, agreeing on paternity.
• DNA Tests: Scientific tests can prove who the biological father is.
• Judge’s Decision: A court can make an official ruling about paternity after looking at the facts.
• Marriage Later On: If parents marry after their child is born, they can update the birth certificate.

Disputing Paternity

If someone disagrees about paternity, they can go to court. A judge might order a DNA test, and if the possible father doesn’t take it, the court could still decide he’s the legal father.

Why Paternity Matters

Not establishing paternity can have big consequences for both the child and the father. A father might miss out on having legal rights, including making decisions or spending time with their child. For the child, it could mean missing out on financial support, health insurance, inheritance rights, or other benefits. It also impacts the emotional connection and sense of identity.

Time Limits for Establishing Paternity

In Florida, you generally have until the child turns 18 to establish paternity. However, it’s usually best to do this as early as possible. This helps build the parent-child relationship and ensures the child receives all the benefits they are entitled to.

At Jorge L. Gonzalez Law, we understand that paternity issues can be complex and emotionally challenging. With over 30 years of extensive experience in family law, our team is ready to guide you through each step. Whether you need to establish paternity to gain legal rights, dispute an unfair claim, or ensure your child receives the support they deserve, we are committed to providing skilled legal help.

We’ll carefully evaluate your unique situation, help you understand all your options, and represent your best interests, in court if necessary. For a free consultation, contact Jorge L. Gonzalez Law today at 305-227-4700.