Paternity: Establishing A Vital Connection

Determining a child’s legal father, or establishing paternity, is a critical step with far-reaching implications for both parent and child. Whether you’re seeking to confirm your parental rights or ensure your child receives the support they deserve, understanding the paternity process is crucial. Our paternity establishment lawyers can help you learn about your options.

Guiding You Through Paternity Matters

At Winnie A. Bates, Attorney at Law, our attorneys approach all family law cases with compassion and clarity. With over 25 years of combined experience serving families in Texas, we understand the emotional complexities and legal nuances involved. We’re here to provide straightforward guidance and effective representation throughout the process.

What Is Paternity And How Is It Established?

Paternity is the legal recognition of a man as a child’s father. In Texas, there are several ways to establish paternity:

• Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP): Both parents can sign a voluntary AOP form, which is then filed with the Vital Statistics Unit.
• Court order: If there’s a dispute about paternity, a court can order genetic testing to determine the father. Once paternity is established, the court can issue orders regarding custody, visitation and child support.
• Presumption of paternity: In some cases, such as when a couple is married at the time of the child’s birth, there’s a legal presumption of paternity.

This can be a complex and challenging question. Our paternity establishment lawyers at Winnie A. Bates, Attorney at Law, can answer your questions and help you through the next steps.

The Importance Of Paternity

Establishing paternity offers significant benefits for both the child and the parents, including:

• Child: The child gains the right to financial support, inheritance, health insurance and access to their father’s medical history.
• Father: The father establishes legal rights to custody, visitation and involvement in the child’s life.
• Mother: The mother can seek child support and ensure the father shares parental responsibilities.

Even if you’re not the biological father, you may be able to establish paternity through adoption or other legal means. We can help you understand your options and pursue the best course of action for your family.

Take The First Step

Whether you’re seeking to establish or challenge paternity, our paternity establishment lawyers at Winnie A. Bates, Attorney at Law, are here to help. Contact us today at 512-877-6255 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation. We’ll listen to your concerns, explain the process, and work tirelessly to protect your rights and your child’s best interests.