Paternity cases arise when unmarried parents have a child and the issues of custody, parenting time or the support of the child arise, either parent may file a Petition to Establish Parental Relationship. It is during this action that either parent may request orders for custody, child support, pregnancy/birth-related costs and even the surname of the child. Should either party question the parentage of the alleged father, blood tests may be requested; however, there are some exceptions to this right.
It is also important to keep in mind that child support may be ordered whether or not a parenting plan has been determined.
Please contact our office to discuss your options.