Paternity Lawyers in Los Angeles, CA
Establishing paternity can be a challenging matter, as it is necessary to determine matters related to child custody, child support, visitation, and more. Whether you are a father trying to establish your rights as a parent, or you are the other parent who is trying to obtain support from the child’s father, you need strong legal guidance throughout the paternity process. Hiring skilled Los Angeles paternity lawyers is absolutely vital. At Zitser Family Law Group, APC, we understand how critical and, sometimes, difficult establishing paternity can be. Our firm has over 20 years of experience proudly representing clients throughout Los Angeles, no matter which side of a paternity matter they may be on. We are ready to help you, too. To discuss your situation with a Los Angeles paternity establishment attorney, contact the Zitser Family Law Group, APC today and schedule a consultation.
What is Paternity?
Paternity is the official name for a case about child custody or parentage. Usually, if the natural parents are married when a child is born, there are no questions about child custody because the law presumes the paternity of the father. Paternity issues tend to arise when a child is born to an unmarried couple. In these instances, parentage of the child needs to be established legally and typically before child support, child custody, visitation rights, name change, health insurance, or birth expenses are resolved by the court.
Why is Paternity so Complicated?
Establishing paternity can be a complicated matter that is made even more complicated when there is a dispute between the parties. When disputing paternity, the court may order a genetic test, also known as a DNA test, to determine the paternity of the father. Sometimes, a voluntary declaration of paternity may be used to establish the paternity of a child. In other instances, child custody experts may get involved. Occasionally, the law may even determine that there may be more than two legal parents.
Other issues that tend to arise include determining who will care for the child, where the child will attend school, what extracurricular activities that child will be enrolled in, relocation of a party with the child, or even under what circumstances a parent can take the child out of the county, state, or country.
What Relief May be Sought?
In addition to child support and child-related expenses, the court can order one party to pay the opposing party’s attorney fees, including the cost of maintaining or defending the proceeding. The costs awarded may also include legal services or costs rendered before or after the commencement of the proceeding.
Why You Should Choose Our Paternity Lawyers
Facing a paternity issue can be stressful. Having confusion or doubts about whether you or another individual is the biological father of a child can be incredibly emotional, especially when high financial stakes exist. At Zitser Family Law Group, APC, we provide more than legal guidance. Our team works to combat the unique challenges you encounter in paternity cases.
When you work with us, you can expect us to represent your interests, respect and protect your privacy, and get the results you need to continue with your life outside of this issue.
Whether you are a mother seeking arrangements for your child or a father seeking to change your paternity status, we commit ourselves to your success. We can advocate for you in the courtroom and work toward the solution ideally suited for ensuring the protection of everyone’s rights.
Our team does what it takes to get results, whether that be ordering the test for you, examining your case with child custody professionals, identifying your ideal situation with financial advisors, or finding a mediator to work toward an amicable resolution.
FAQs
Q: How Long Does a Father Have to Establish Paternity in California?
A: California has no time constraint on establishing paternity. A father can petition a court to establish paternity at any time. This ability is particularly relevant in high-asset cases where future child support or rights to inheritance are at stake. Receiving early legal assistance from our Los Angeles paternity attorney can protect your rights regarding your paternity case.
Q: Can You Sue for False Paternity in California?
A: You can sue for false paternity in California if evidence proves that a mistake was made. However, you’ll have to meet the statute of limitations, which begins upon discovery. When dealing with a situation of this magnitude, you should act to acquire legal representation as quickly as possible to ensure you do not lose your chance to fight for your rights. High-wealth cases, particularly, can require immediate attention due to the high stakes.
Q: How Do I Dispute Paternity in California?
A: Disputing paternity in California can seem fairly simple, but it requires following the correct steps to guarantee high chances of success. If you believe you are not the biological father of a child or if someone you love is in this situation, you can request a court-ordered DNA test to begin your dispute. Our paternity lawyer can guide you through the process, ensure everyone involved follows proper procedures, and represent you in court when necessary.
Q: How Do I Get a Court-Ordered Paternity Test in California?
A: Getting a court-ordered paternity test in California requires specific circumstances that call for one. Various circumstances that make ordering a test necessary include a father wishing to establish or dispute paternity, a mother seeking child support or a custody change, or doubt that an individual is the biological father of a child. Our paternity attorney can advise you on the most effective way to obtain a test for your situation.
Contact a Los Angeles Paternity Attorney
Establishing parentage and figuring out who should have primary custody of the child and what financial assistance is appropriate is often a difficult and stressful situation. If you find yourself facing paternity issues, contact the Zitser Family Law Group today. With over 20 years of experience and training, our skilled team will help you obtain the best outcome for your particular case. Contact our firm today to discuss your situation.
