Los Angeles Paternity Lawyers 

Navigating Paternity Matters in California 

Our firm has helped hundreds of couples in the greater Los Angeles area to obtain definitive answers in paternity cases. Our paternity lawyers in Los Angeles provide a clear and rational approach to your legal problem as well as the emotional detachment and skill that is necessary to navigate through the court procedures required for paternity determination.

Paternity actions almost always occur as mere formalities so that other legal proceedings such as child support or child custody determinations can take place. In almost all of the paternity cases our firm has handled, no doubt exists as to the identity of the father.

Understanding Paternity and Its Legal Implications

Paternity is defined as the state or condition of being a father. This type of action arises when parties, who were never legally married to each other, need to determine the father of the child. Either the mother or the father of the child may file the Petition to Establish Parental Relationship of a child.

Once paternity is established, the court will make decisions on the issues of:

• Child custody & visitation
• Child support

If the parties are able to reach an agreement with respect to the resolution of these issues, they then execute a Stipulated Judgment of Paternity. This is submitted to the court for the judge’s signature and entry, and both parties have no need to appear in court. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the court has to resolve the parties’ differences at a trial with a Court Judgment of Paternity.

Advocating for Fathers' Rights in Paternity Cases

One of the best steps you can take to preserve your emotional and financial future when facing a paternity-related legal issue is to consult with an experienced paternity lawyer in Los Angeles.

Most of our clients feel empowered or at least better informed of their legal options after just the initial consultation. At the Law Offices of Korol & Velen, we aggressively fight for the rights of the father in matters of paternity, custody, visitation, and support.

Establishing Paternity in California

Determining paternity is an essential step in securing parental rights and responsibilities. Whether both parents agree or one party disputes paternity, there are legal processes in place to establish fatherhood.

• Voluntary Paternity Acknowledgment – If both parents agree on paternity, they can sign a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity. This form legally establishes the father as the child’s parent without the need for a court case. It is often signed at the hospital when the child is born.
• DNA Testing in Paternity Cases – If paternity is in question, either parent can request a DNA test. A court may also order genetic testing if one party refuses to cooperate. These tests are highly accurate and are used to confirm or deny biological parentage.
• Legal Steps When the Father Is Unwilling – If a man denies being the father, the mother can file a Petition to Establish Paternity in family court. If the alleged father refuses a court-ordered DNA test, the court may establish paternity by default, leading to potential child support obligations.

Denying Paternity and Contesting Claims

Not every paternity claim is accurate, and men who believe they are not the biological father have legal options.

• Challenging Paternity in Court – If a man believes he has been wrongly identified as a father, he can file a motion to dispute paternity. This often involves DNA testing to prove biological parentage.
• Avoiding Mistaken Paternity Responsibilities – If a man has already been paying child support but later discovers he is not the biological father, he may be able to challenge the order. However, reversing paternity can be complicated, especially if legal acknowledgment has already been made.
• Time Limits for Contesting Paternity – California law imposes deadlines for challenging paternity. Acting quickly is critical to avoiding long-term financial and legal obligations.

Paternity and Birth Certificate Rights

A father’s name on a birth certificate carries legal significance and can impact custody, support, and inheritance rights.

• Adding a Father’s Name to the Birth Certificate – If paternity is established after birth, the father’s name can be added to the birth certificate by filing the appropriate paperwork with the state.
• Removing a Father’s Name – If paternity is successfully contested, the court can order the removal of the father’s name from the birth certificate. However, this process often requires legal action.
• Legal Rights Associated with the Birth Certificate – Being named on a birth certificate can grant a father rights related to custody, visitation, and decision-making for the child. It also creates financial obligations, including child support.

If you need help with a paternity matter, our legal team can guide you through the process. Contact us today for a consultation.

How Our Los Angeles Paternity Lawyers Can Help

When it comes to paternity matters, having the right legal representation can make all the difference. At the Law Offices of Korol & Velen, we understand that paternity cases are often emotionally charged and complex. Choosing an experienced paternity lawyer not only ensures that your rights are protected but also helps facilitate a smoother resolution to your case.

Here are some reasons why selecting our firm can benefit you:

• Personalized Approach: We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our strategies to meet your specific needs.
• Expertise in Family Law: Our team specializes in family law, ensuring that you receive knowledgeable guidance throughout the process.
• Strong Negotiation Skills: We are skilled negotiators who strive to reach amicable agreements, reducing the stress and duration of legal battles.
• Compassionate Support: We recognize the emotional strain that paternity disputes can cause and provide compassionate support every step of the way.
• Proven Track Record: Our successful history in handling paternity cases speaks for itself, giving you confidence in our ability to advocate for your rights.

Let us help you navigate the complexities of paternity law with expertise and empathy. Contact the Law Offices of Korol & Velen today for a consultation and take the first step toward securing your rights and responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can a mother refuse a paternity test?

• In California, if a paternity case is filed in court, a judge can order genetic testing. If the mother refuses to cooperate, she may face legal consequences, including the court assuming paternity based on available evidence.

What if the alleged father lives in another state?

• Paternity cases can still proceed even if the father is in another state. The court may order DNA testing and enforce child support across state lines through the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA).

Does signing the birth certificate automatically establish paternity?

• No. While signing the birth certificate is an indication of paternity, it does not provide legal parental rights unless a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity (VDP) is also signed or paternity is established through the court.

Can I establish paternity after the child turns 18?

• In most cases, paternity actions must be filed before the child reaches adulthood. However, there are limited circumstances where paternity can still be determined for inheritance or other legal matters.

Can paternity be established if the father has passed away?

• Yes. In some cases, DNA testing of the father’s relatives or other forms of evidence, such as medical records, can be used to determine paternity posthumously.

Does establishing paternity automatically grant custody or visitation rights?

• No. Establishing paternity only confirms legal fatherhood. Custody and visitation rights must be determined separately through court proceedings.

Can a paternity ruling be overturned?

• Yes, but it depends on the circumstances. If a man is found not to be the biological father, he may petition to challenge a prior paternity ruling. However, if legal paternity has already been established and years have passed, reversing it can be difficult.