Paternity in Florida

Establishing paternity is a crucial step for unmarried parents who want to secure legal rights and responsibilities regarding their child. In Florida, paternity establishes who the legal father is and creates a foundation for decisions about custody (parental responsibility), time-sharing, and child support.

Why Establish Paternity?

• Legal Recognition: Once paternity is established, the father gains legal rights and responsibilities.
• Child Support: Establishing paternity allows the child to receive financial support from both parents.
• Parental Rights: The father can seek time-sharing and participate in important decisions about the child’s upbringing.
• Health and Benefits: Paternity can provide the child access to medical history, social security benefits, and inheritance rights.

How Is Paternity Established?

Florida law provides several ways to establish paternity:

• Voluntary Acknowledgment: Both parents sign a legal document acknowledging the father’s identity.
• Court Order: If parents do not agree, paternity can be established through a court proceeding, often involving genetic testing.
• Marriage Presumption: If the parents were married when the child was born, the husband is presumed the legal father.

What If Paternity Is Disputed?

If paternity is contested, the court may order DNA testing to determine parentage. Once established, the court can issue orders regarding parental responsibility, time-sharing, and child support.

We’re Here to Help

At Monarch Family Law, we understand that questions about paternity can be stressful and complicated. Whether you want to establish paternity voluntarily or need to resolve a dispute, our compassionate attorneys provide clear guidance and strong advocacy to protect your and your child’s rights.
Ready to establish or contest paternity?
Contact Monarch Family Law today to schedule your case evaluation and learn your options.

Ready to establish or contest paternity?

Contact Monarch Family Law today to schedule your case evaluation and learn your options.