Establishing Or Contesting Paternity In Texas
If a child was born when the parents weren’t married, establishing paternity can be valuable for fathers and mothers. I am family law attorney Kristi Barnhill with extensive experience handling paternity cases for fathers seeking to secure child custody and visitation rights. I also help women take the steps necessary to establish the paternity of their child and obtain child support.
I am committed to helping men and women protect their parental rights. Paternity can be established through a DNA test. I am available to help men and women prepare and file the necessary paperwork to initiate the paternity process. After paternity is determined, I will work through the court to establish a plan for child custody, visitation and child support.
For a case evaluation with an experienced Montgomery County paternity lawyer, call 713-965-7612 or contact my law firm online to schedule a consultation in The Woodlands.
I Understand The Issues In Fathers’ Rights Cases
At the Law Office of Kristi Barnhill, PLLC, I am committed to helping fathers maintain a relationship with their biological children. I know how to help fathers assert their rights through establishing paternity. This is a necessary step for fathers to:
- Obtain visitation and custody rights
- Modify the current custody arrangement
- Challenge a stepparent adoption proceeding
I also have a strong background advocating for fathers who believe they are not a child’s biological father. If a paternity test reveals that you are not the father of the child in question, you will no longer be obligated to provide child support. I am committed to helping you navigate through the legal process while addressing all of your legal concerns.
Advocating To Protect Mothers’ Rights In Paternity Proceedings
I also have a strong background representing women in paternity proceedings. When you select my law firm, you will work directly with me. I will tailor my approach around your unique situation. If you remain on good terms with your child’s biological father, I will work with you to keep the process as amicable as possible.
When this is not possible, a paternity test can be performed to establish or disprove paternity. I am committed to helping you secure child support and establish a visitation schedule.
Answering Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Paternity
When our clients are navigating paternity cases, they often have many questions about their rights and the legal process. As we represent you, we can address your concerns and guide you through every step of the process. Some of the questions we frequently receive from our clients include:
What is the process for establishing paternity in Texas?
Establishing paternity in Texas typically involves a legal process to determine the biological father of a child. This can be done voluntarily through an Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) form signed by both parents or through a court order requiring a DNA test. Once paternity is established, the court can address issues like custody, visitation, and child support. Consulting an experienced family law attorney can help ensure the process is handled correctly and efficiently.
Can paternity be contested after it has been established?
Yes, paternity can be contested in Texas under certain circumstances. If new evidence, such as DNA test results, proves that the established father is not the biological parent, legal action can be taken to challenge paternity. However, there are strict timelines and legal requirements for contesting paternity, so it’s crucial to act quickly and seek legal guidance to navigate the process.
What rights does a father gain after establishing paternity in Texas?
Once paternity is established, a father gains legal rights to seek custody, visitation, and decision-making authority regarding the child. Additionally, establishing paternity allows the father to be involved in the child’s life and ensures the child has access to benefits like inheritance, medical history, and financial support. Working with a family law attorney can help fathers assert and protect these rights.
What happens if the alleged father refuses to take a paternity test?
If the alleged father refuses to take a paternity test in Texas, the court may intervene and order the test to be conducted. Refusal to comply with a court-ordered paternity test can result in legal consequences, including a default judgment establishing paternity. It’s important to address such situations with the help of an experienced attorney to ensure the legal process is followed.
Contact A Skilled Paternity Lawyer In Montgomery County
If you are seeking to establish or disprove a paternity test in Texas, select an experienced family law attorney to protect your rights. Contact my law firm online or call 713-965-7612 to schedule a consultation at my law office. I am a highly skilled Texas paternity lawyer with experience handling cases in Montgomery County. My law office is conveniently located near The Woodlands Mall and just minutes from the freeway.