When you have a child with someone you are not married to, you have to start a paternity action with the court. Even though you are sure you are the father you have to establish with the courts that you are the father. Either party can request that a paternity test be done, or you can assert that you are the father.
There are numerous forms that need to be completed to start a paternity action and be declared the father. After the paternity action is started unless you reach an agreement with the mother on the custody/visitation schedule it will be best to request a court date so the court can decide what the custody/visitation should be. There are also many forms that need to be completed in order to get a court date.
Before going to court, you are required by law to attend mediation with the mother to see if you are able to work out a parenting schedule. If you are unable to work out a parenting schedule, you will go to court and the court will decide for you what the custody and visitation schedule will be. After the court date, paternity is established and there is a custody/visitation schedule, a Judgment of Paternity will also need to be completed.
As you can see in order to establish paternity and get a court date for custody and visitation there are a lot of rules to follow and forms that must be completed properly. Wallin & Klarich has more than 30 years of experience in family law. Our attorneys know from long experience in paternity cases, and are prepared to fight to get you the best possible outcome. With 16 attorneys in 33 offices throughout Southern California, we can be there when you need us – wherever you are. If you’re thinking of hiring an attorney for a paternity matter, call us today at 1-888-749-7428 for a consultation.
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