PROFESSIONAL PATERNITY LAWYERS OKLAHOMA CITY, OK

Understanding the Impact of Paternity

Establishing paternity in Oklahoma is a significant step that not only grants certain benefits to a child but also confers legal rights and responsibilities upon the father. The process of establishing paternity can arise at various stages, either immediately after birth or later during the child's upbringing. Oklahoma offers several methods to establish paternity, each with its own considerations.

One method for establishing paternity is through acknowledgment. This typically involves both the mother and father signing an Acknowledgement of Paternity Form. While this often occurs at the hospital during a child's birth, the form can also be completed through the office of vital records. Once executed and filed, an acknowledgment may become legally binding and challenging to revoke, although certain circumstances may allow for revocation.

Another method is paternity by presumption. Under this approach, a person is presumed to be the child's father if they are married to the mother, and the child is born during the marriage or within 300 days after divorce. This presumption also applies if someone marries the mother after the child's birth and voluntarily asserts paternity in a legally recognized document committing to support the child as their own. Additionally, continuous cohabitation with the child during their first two years and representation of the child as one's own can establish paternity by presumption. This presumption remains in effect unless the court orders otherwise or the presumed father signs a denial of paternity, with subsequent acknowledgment of paternity by the true genetic father and mother.

Finally, the court may adjudicate paternity if the parties request the court to establish parentage. This legal action is often initiated to mandate genetic testing, especially when there are doubts or disputes regarding paternity. Any party, including the mother, father, or child, can initiate this legal proceeding. In cases where the alleged father fails to appear, the court may issue a default judgment. When the alleged father contests the order, genetic testing can be requested, and the court will issue an order based on the results of DNA testing.

These diverse methods provide a framework for establishing paternity in Oklahoma, ensuring that children's rights and interests are protected while affording fathers their legal rights and responsibilities.

Contact a Paternity Lawyer in Oklahoma City

When dealing with paternity matters, seeking the guidance of an experienced attorney is crucial. If you have concerns related to paternity, the skilled paternity attorneys at Ball Morse Lowe PLLC are here to assist you in safeguarding or asserting your rights. Our services extend throughout the state of Oklahoma, including our Cleveland County office located in Norman.

To schedule a consultation with a paternity attorney, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. You can contact us at 405.701.5355 or conveniently use our online form. We are committed to helping you navigate paternity issues effectively.