Raleigh Paternity Lawyer Navigating Paternity Laws In North Carolina
In North Carolina, all parents of a child are legally obligated to provide financial support for the child, even after a divorce. For the most part, the law only speaks of the child’s biological parents. If a child is born out of wedlock, matters may become more complicated, and either parent may wish to establish paternity to know the child’s father. The entire concept of establishing paternity can be a sensitive topic for anyone, muddled up with legal complications. It can be understandably intimidating to ask for help, but it must be done simultaneously. Our Raleigh family law lawyer at Hopper Law Office can support you during this trying time. We pride ourselves on being able to guide families through difficulties with as little stress as possible.
Call Hopper Law Office today at 919-948-5373 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our paternity attorney in Raleigh!
What Is Paternity?
Paternity refers to the legal establishment of a child’s biological father. It is a crucial aspect of family law that determines the rights and responsibilities of a father about their child. Establishing paternity is not only essential for the father but also for the well-being of the child, as it lays the foundation for parental rights, child support and visitation arrangements. At Hopper Law Office, we understand the sensitive nature of paternity cases and approach each situation with empathy and professionalism. Our legal team is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of paternity law, ensuring that your rights as a father or your child’s rights are safeguarded.
Establishing Paternity In North Carolina
In North Carolina, paternity can be established through various legal avenues, providing clarity and structure to the familial relationship. Understanding these methods is crucial for anyone seeking to establish or dispute paternity. Our knowledgeable Raleigh paternity lawyer is well-versed in North Carolina’s paternity laws and can confidently guide you through the process.
- Genetic testing: Genetic testing is one of the most common methods for establishing paternity. This involves comparing the DNA of the alleged father and the child to determine biological parentage. Our legal team can assist in facilitating this process, ensuring accurate and legally admissible results.
- Voluntary acknowledgment: In some cases, paternity can be established through a voluntary acknowledgment. This occurs when both parents agree on the biological father, and they sign a legal document acknowledging paternity. Our attorney can help you understand the implications of voluntary acknowledgment and ensure that all necessary legal requirements are met.
- Court order: A court order may be necessary when there is a dispute or the parties cannot agree on paternity. Our skilled attorney is experienced in presenting compelling cases to the court, advocating for our clients and the children’s best interests.
What Are The Benefits Of Establishing Paternity?
If there is any doubt surrounding who the father of your child may be, establishing paternity through scientific testing could be a huge relief for you and your ex-spouse. As it is often said, knowing is far better than never knowing. When you come to our team, our goal will be to get you to a more comfortable place on more solid ground, even if that means using legal means to get there. You may want to establish paternity if you are a:
- Father: Historically, fathers’ rights are often put aside in child custody hearings as a social bias holds the mother in better favor. The scales will only feel more imbalanced to a father who cannot prove that he is the father of the child.
- Mother: One of the most common ways a father can try to deny paying child support is by claiming the child is not his own. A mother may want to establish paternity to protect her rights and strengthen her case in a child support dispute.
Contact Our Raleigh Paternity Attorney Today
At Hopper Law Office, our experienced Raleigh paternity lawyers bring knowledge and dedication to each case. Whether you seek to establish paternity or face a dispute, our legal team is ready to guide you with professionalism and empathy. Contact Hopper Law Office today and take the first step toward confidently resolving your paternity matters.