Paternity Lawyer in Minneapolis

Helping Fathers Resolve Concerns About Paternity

The issue of paternity is one of the most common topics to address during child custody and child support cases. Unfortunately, there are scenarios where it’s unclear who the biological father of a child is, and it’s important to be sure about this issue before the court makes any decisions about child support, custody, or visitation.

If you have any doubts about a child’s paternity, now is the time to find a resolution, and our law firm can assist with this. If you’re facing a paternity dispute or need to establish your legal rights as a father, The Legal Dad is here to help.

Why Is Establishing Paternity Important?

If you’ve spent years raising your child, proving paternity might not seem necessary, especially if it doesn’t change your relationship with them. However, if your relationship with the child’s mother ends, you may need proof of paternity to secure your legal rights.

If you weren’t married when the child was born, you might not have legal standing to request parenting time until paternity is established. This can be difficult for fathers who want to care for their children, so it’s important to establish paternity before seeking custody or visitation.

If you’re being asked to pay child support for a child you suspect isn’t biologically yours, paternity testing can clarify the situation. Without it, you may be held financially responsible for a child who isn’t yours.

If the test confirms paternity, you can start paying child support and pursue custody or visitation rights. A Minneapolis paternity lawyer can guide you through the process of proving paternity and staying involved in your child’s life after a breakup or divorce.

How Can You Establish Paternity in Minnesota?

The process of establishing paternity varies depending on your circumstances. If you were married to the mother when the child was born, you’re legally considered the father and don’t have to establish paternity. This means you already have the right to seek custody or visitation as you go through divorce.

If you were unmarried when the child was born, you’re not considered the legal father unless you signed a Recognition of Parentage (ROP), a paternity form that states under oath that you’re the parent. Both parents typically sign this form shortly after the child is born.

If you did not sign an ROP when the child was born, but you and the child’s mother agree that you’re the biological father, you can both sign and file the form now. This will give you a chance to request visitation or custody of your child. An experienced Minneapolis paternity lawyer for men will assist with any paperwork you must complete and file with the court before you seek custody, so call The Legal Dad to get started on your paternity case.

What If the Parents Disagree on the Paternity of the Child?

The Recognition of Parentage is an easy way to establish paternity when both parents agree. However, if paternity is in question, genetic testing is often the best option.

Only a legal parent can consent to DNA testing. If you’re not legally recognized as the father, you’ll need the mother’s consent. If she agrees, you can proceed with testing outside of court, and use the results in child custody or support matters.

If the mother refuses to test, you can petition the court. If the court approves, she must comply or face contempt of court. This ensures you receive clarity on paternity, even if the process takes time. For guidance through this process, contact The Legal Dad for support.

What Can a Minneapolis Paternity Lawyer for Men Do for Your Case?

When you’re a devoted father, you shouldn’t have to lose sleep over the possibility of not seeing your child again just because your relationship with their mother is over. Getting proof that you’re the legal father gives you the same rights as the mother when it comes to spending time with your child.

If you’re ready to get peace of mind when it comes to your rights as a father, call our Minneapolis law office at 612-712-3405 for a free initial consultation with a skilled, passionate lawyer for men.