Claremont Paternity Lawyer

The paternity of a child can have a lifelong impact on that child’s future, including the type of support they receive and who they spend time with while growing up. If you are a mother and have questions regarding the father of your child, or if you are a father and want to legally establish your parental rights, then a Claremont paternity lawyer at All American Law can provide guidance tailored to your situation in Claremont and throughout Los Angeles County.

Establishing Paternity in Los Angeles County

Paternity refers to the legal determination of a child’s father. In many cases, paternity is straightforward because a couple is married or in a committed relationship before becoming pregnant.

However, in cases where a child is born to an unmarried man and woman, it can be harder to establish paternity, especially if the couple is no longer together when the baby is born.

Under California Family Code Section 7573, unmarried couples can sign a Voluntary Declaration of Parentage (VDOP) at the time of the child’s birth. This legally binding document establishes the child’s legal parents without the need for a court hearing. Hospitals in Claremont, California and throughout Los Angeles County typically provide this form shortly after birth.

Claremont parents can also establish a VDOC after leaving the hospital through the Los Angeles County Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) or by filing the appropriate paperwork with the County of Los Angeles Superior Court.

For parents who don’t have a VDOC in place, a mother or father can petition the County of Los Angeles Superior Court requesting a determination of parentage. DNA testing is recognized in California courts as sufficient evidence.

Why Is Establishing Parentage Important?

Fathers play an important role in shaping their children’s lives and futures through their support, guidance, and love. For instance, when it comes to a child’s education, research shows that kids who have fathers involved in their lives are 43% more likely to see high scores on their report card and are twice as likely to either go to college or find a job after completing high school.

Children without a present father at home are at a four times higher risk of living in poverty. In addition, biological fathers also have a great deal of influence on the future decisions their child makes. For example, children who are close to their fathers are 80% less likely to go to jail.

Establishing legal parentage provides important benefits for the child, including:

• Citizenship rights, if applicable
• Legal recognition of both parents
• Family identity and access to familial relationships
• Financial support and assistance
• Eligibility for health insurance
• Inheritance rights
• Access to family medical history and knowledge of genetic conditions

When California paternity laws determine parentage, the father can:

• Access to their child’s school and health records
• Request to be listed on their child’s birth certificate
• Seek child custody or visitation rights
• Participate in decision-making in their child’s upbringing

Why Should I Hire a Paternity Lawyer?

California paternity law can be complex and difficult to navigate without legal training. When you hire a Claremont paternity attorney familiar with the procedures of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, it can help make the process more manageable and less overwhelming.

Your paternity attorney can help with:

• Filing any necessary paperwork for your paternity claim
• Establishing legal paternity for you and your child through DNA testing and Voluntary Declaration of Parentage
• Helping to set up parenting arrangements that work for all, including custody arrangements and visitation times
• Assisting with court-ordered financial support
• Representing you and your child’s interests in court, while upholding the rights of both parents
• Represent fathers who are disputing alleged paternity

Legal representation can also help reduce procedural mistakes that can delay your case. Having experienced legal guidance can provide clarity during what may be an emotional process.

FAQs

How Much Does a Paternity Lawyer Cost in California?

The cost of a paternity lawyer in California depends on the complexity of the case. Cases involving disputed parentage, multiple court appearances, or contested custody issues may require more time and legal work. During an initial consultation, your Claremont paternity lawyer can provide information about potential fees and billing structures.

Do You Need a Lawyer for Paternity Court in California?

You are not legally required to hire a lawyer to represent you in a paternity case. However, California’s parentage laws and court procedures can be detailed and technical. Without a clear understanding of these rules, mistakes can occur that may affect custody, visitation, or support outcomes. Many parents in Los Angeles County choose to work with an attorney for guidance and representation.

How Does DNA Testing for Paternity Work?

DNA testing compares the genetic material of the alleged father and the child. The process is typically simple and noninvasive. A swab is used to collect cells from the inside of each person’s cheek, and the samples are then sent to a certified laboratory for analysis. The results indicate whether the tested individual is the biological father of the child.

How Long Will My Paternity Case Take in Los Angeles County?

How long your paternity case takes in Los Angeles County is dependent upon your specific case and its complexity. If both parents agree on paternity and they just want it legalized, that will be a much quicker turnaround than a case where maybe the father can’t be easily tracked down, or they are disputing paternity. When you have your first consultation with your paternity lawyer, they will be able to provide you with a time estimate for your particular case.

The Benefits of an Accomplished Claremont Paternity Lawyer

If you or a family member in Los Angeles County is looking to hire a paternity lawyer, contact All American Law. With more than 30 years focused exclusively on family law, our legal team can help you with not only paternity but also other related legal issues, including child support, child custody, and grandparents’ rights. The needs of our clients are always our highest priority, and we will work tirelessly to protect your rights.