It isn’t right, but sometimes fathers refuse to acknowledge that a child is theirs. In these cases, fathers are usually denying paternity in order to get out of paying child support.
In Virginia, a father can be forced by the court to undergo genetic testing, proving or disproving that he is the father of a child or multiple children. If you are in this situation, and want to go through the court proceedings to ensure that the father pays child support and acknowledges the child as his own, please consider the following:
- You have the right to file for a paternity test either before or after the child is born. However, judges rarely allow testing to be done before the baby is born.
- Establishing paternity will allow you to file for child support from the father. However, it also allows the father to ask the courts for visitation and/or custody of the child.
Before asking the court for a forced paternity test, it is highly recommended that you seek the legal advice of an experienced Virginia Beach paternity lawyer. The legal process surrounding a court-ordered paternity test is complicated and getting legal help will help ensure that your rights and the rights of your child are protected.
When you speak with an attorney, be totally honest about your situation. If you are not sure who the father is, say so. If you lie about these things to your attorney, they won’t be able to represent you to the best of their ability.
Choosing the Right Virginia Beach Family Law Lawyer
It is wise to think hard before choosing the best lawyer for your case. You will want a lawyer with the experience and the results to show that they know what they’re doing. The last thing you need during this stressful time is a bad attorney.
For legal care you can trust, please call 757.625.1214 and make an appointment with a Virginia Beach paternity attorney who truly cares for you and your child. Do not delay. Call today and schedule your free consultation.