Simi Valley Paternity Lawyers
Experienced Attorneys Helping Fathers Establish Paternity in Los Angeles
At Sua Law Group, we understand the importance of establishing paternity and its significant impact on the lives of children and parents. As experienced Simi Valley paternity lawyers, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and skilled legal representation to clients seeking to establish or challenge paternity. Our team is committed to protecting both fathers' and children's rights and interests, ensuring a fair and just resolution for all parties involved.
Call Sua Law Group today at (805) 515-4070 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our paternity attorney in Simi Valley!
Understanding the Paternity Process in California
Establishing paternity refers to legally determining the biological father of a child. In California, there are various methods available to establish paternity.
The most common ways include:
- Voluntary Declaration of Paternity: If both parents agree on the father's identity, they can sign a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity (VDP) form. This form is typically completed at the hospital when the child is born or at a later date through the local child support agency. Once signed, it establishes legal paternity.
- Genetic Testing: In situations where there is a dispute or uncertainty regarding paternity, genetic testing can provide a conclusive determination. DNA testing compares the genetic markers of the alleged father, mother, and child to establish biological relationships with a high level of accuracy.
Our skilled Simi Valley paternity lawyers will guide you through establishing paternity, ensuring all necessary legal steps are taken. We will assist you in gathering the required documentation, coordinating DNA testing if necessary, and filing the appropriate legal paperwork with the court.
How To Establish Paternity in California
In California, establishing paternity is essential for defining parental rights, responsibilities, and child support obligations.
To petition the court for paternity, follow these steps:
- File a Petition: Begin by filing a “Petition to Establish Parental Relationship” (Form FL-200) with your local family court. This initiates the legal process for the court to recognize someone as the child’s legal father.
- Serve the Other Parent: Deliver a copy of the petition to the other parent through legal service. This must be done by someone over 18 who is not involved in the case, and proof of service must then be filed with the court.
- Request a DNA Test (if needed): If paternity is disputed, the court may order genetic testing to establish biological parentage. Testing is typically done by a court-approved facility to ensure accuracy.
- Attend the Hearing: Once the case is set, both parties must attend the court hearing. The judge reviews the evidence, including DNA results if applicable, to make a determination.
- Receive the Court Order: If paternity is established, the court issues a judgment, which can outline custody, visitation rights, and child support obligations as applicable.
Establishing paternity legally secures parental rights and responsibilities, benefiting both the child and parents involved. Consulting a family law attorney can help ensure the process is completed smoothly and accurately.
What Our Clients Say About Our Services
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"Brandon was extremely personable, financially reasonable as well as professional."I am forever grateful to know & trust an attorney that has a passion to help people, when they just may NOT know how to help themselves!!- Sara S.
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"They truly are all amazing! Thank you for having my back!"They handled my case with so much respect, diligence, passion and determination.- Rubi R.
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"Amazing, diligent, and intelligent."I would never want anyone else representing me!- Angelica S.
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"My experience with this law office has been amazing!"I really cannot say how grateful I am to have found Sua & Associates.- Adam M.
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"Brandon and his team took me in, saw my love for my son, gave me an affordable service, and put together a great case."They were diligent and compassionate and we were totally successful in and out of the courtroom.- Richard D.
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"He fights for what is right, and he really cares about his clients."Thank you Brandon, in helping me protect my children and getting the courts to finally see truth in our situation. You are a rockstar!!!- Christina C.
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"I highly recommend his practice to those seeking real justice."Brandon’s team met me with empathy and compassion.- Jean A.
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"Brandon and his team are amazing!!!"I HIGHLY recommend going to Brandon and his team!!!!!- Natalia G.