Once the father's paternity has been established, however, they would subsequently need to request visitation rights from the court—as the results of a DNA test would not be sufficient enough to show that they are fit to raise a child. Since this process can prove to be a significant undertaking, especially when battling with an uncooperative mother, you should not hesitate to seek guidance from a Jacksonville paternity lawyer at Charles E. Willmott, P.A. if you, yourself are interested in reclaiming your parenting rights. To find out how we can help, just give us a call today at (904) 849-5183 and schedule a confidential consultation.

How do I establish paternity in Florida?

In Florida, paternity can be established either through marriage, signing an Acknowledgement of Paternity at the hospital when the child is born or later, through an administrative order based on genetic testing (paternity is ordered after a genetic test has determined fatherhood), a court order (a judge orders paternity in court), and through legitimation. With legitimation, the mother and natural father of the child get married to each other after the child is born and subsequently update the child's birth records through the Florida Office of Vital Statistics.

Genetic testing is frequently used to establish paternity; a genetic test is also called a DNA test. With a genetic test, there is no need for needles. Skin cells are collected from the inside cheek area of the mouth with a cotton swab; this test is performed on the mother, the alleged father, and the child. Genetic tests are always used with the Administrative Order method, and sometimes a judge will order a genetic test. If the mother or the alleged father has any doubt as to whom the real father is, it's a good idea to get a genetic test.

Advantages of Legal Paternity for Jacksonville Families

Establishing paternity can have numerous benefits for all parties involved, including the mother, father, and child. Some of the key benefits of establishing paternity include:

• Legal rights and responsibilities: Once paternity is established, both the mother and father have legal rights and responsibilities towards the child, including child support, visitation rights, and the ability to make important decisions regarding the child's upbringing.
• Emotional connection: For the child, knowing their biological father can provide a sense of identity and belonging, as well as access to their family medical history.
• Financial support: Establishing paternity can ensure that the child receives the financial support they are entitled to, including child support and access to benefits such as health insurance and inheritance rights.
• Access to medical history: Knowing the child's full medical history can be crucial for their health and well-being, as it can help identify any potential genetic conditions or health risks.

Our experienced Jacksonville paternity lawyers can guide you through the process of establishing paternity and help you understand the legal implications and benefits involved. If you are interested in filing for paternity in Jacksonville, contact us today for a consultation.

Ready to File for Paternity? Contact Our Jacksonville Law Firm

Whether you are a mother, father, or alleged father, I can guide you through your paternity proceedings in a timely and effective manner. At my firm, the best interests of my clients' children always come first. At Charles E. Willmott, P.A., I can evaluate your paternity case to help you understand your options and rights in the matter. If you wish to establish paternity in Florida, it is important to do so during the first three years of your child's life.

I can help with various issues that may arise during your paternity case, including filing important paperwork, seeking the child support or child custody that you are entitled to, and answering your questions.

Ready to establish paternity in Jacksonville? Contact Charles E. Willmott, P.A. or call (904) 849-5183 for expert assistance today.