Paternity Lawyer Serving Alabama

We represent clients who seek to prove or exclude paternity. Paternity issues are important for both parents and children. If paternity is established, the mother can request child support from the biological father. In addition, children are recognized as legal heirs, and certain benefits, such as Social Security benefits and veteran's benefits, become available to them.

Unless there are fitness or other issues restricting visitation or custodial rights, establishing paternity typically allows the biological father to step into the shoes of a divorced father. In some cases, paternity is uncontested and can be established by signing an Affidavit of Paternity. It is important to consult with an attorney in order to fully understand the obligations granted by signing the Affidavit of Paternity.

In contested paternity cases the court has the power to compel presumptive parents to submit to DNA testing. Paternity can be challenged even when a child was born into a marriage, or when the presumed father’s name was placed on the birth certificate.

Experienced Paternity Lawyers

For assistance in establishing or challenging paternity in a divorce, child custody proceeding, or other family law matter in Guntersville, Huntsville, Arab, Albertville, Boaz, and surrounding areas, contact a paternity lawyer at The Hawkins Law Firm.