Massachusetts Paternity Lawyers
The legal declaration naming a man to be the father of a child can be a complex process with serious life altering consequences to both the father and child. The court has the power to enter orders concerning child support, medical expenses, health insurance, custody, and visitation. Until a man has been legally declared the father, he has no custodial or visitation rights to the child. Similarly, a mother cannot collect child support from the purported father until he is legally declared the father. Establishing paternity is a serious matter that often requires the assistance of a skilled attorney who understands the nuances of the Massachusetts paternity laws.
Establishing Paternity in Massachusetts
It is presumed that a mother's husband is the father of the child if the couple was married when she became pregnant or the child was born within 300 days of her divorce. In situations where the mother is not married, paternity can be acknowledged out-of-court by the mother and father signing a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage form. Typically, the hospital where the child is born will provide the form, but parents can execute the form at a later date and file it with the city clerk's office in the city where the child was born. If a mother or putative father does not agree to the paternity of a child, then either party can file a complaint in court to establish paternity. Contested paternity matters can be difficult and are often multifaceted because if paternity is established then other issues such as child support, health insurance, visitation, and custody become relevant. There is a lot to consider and having a strong Massachusetts family lawyer may be vital to protecting the interests of your child and your rights as a parent.
If you are looking for a skilled and experienced lawyer to help you with your paternity issue in Massachusetts, please call us to schedule a FREE consultation.
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