Paternity Lawyer in Kings County, New York

Navigating the legal complexities of paternity can be an emotionally charged and challenging process. Whether you’re looking to establish paternity to protect your parental rights or to resolve disputes, a skilled paternity lawyer in Kings County, New York, can guide you through the process. At Brooklyn Family & Divorce Lawyer MKB, we provide compassionate and knowledgeable representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your family.

Understanding Paternity: Biological vs. Legal Fatherhood

Paternity refers to the legal recognition of a man as a child’s father, but it’s not always as straightforward as it seems. The distinction between biological fatherhood and legal fatherhood often lies at the heart of paternity cases.

• Biological Father: This is the man whose DNA contributes to the child’s genetic makeup. While a paternity test can confirm biological fatherhood with near certainty, it does not automatically confer legal rights or responsibilities.
• Legal Father: This is the individual recognized by the law as the child’s father, with corresponding rights and obligations, regardless of biological connection. A legal father may have custody, visitation rights, and financial responsibilities like child support.

In Kings County, navigating the nuances of fatherhood requires understanding how the law applies to your specific situation, as the roles of biological and legal fathers are not always aligned.

Common Paternity Challenges

Paternity cases often involve unique legal and emotional challenges. Here are some of the most common issues we help clients address:

1. Establishing Paternity
   Mothers may seek to establish paternity to secure child support or benefits for their children. Fathers may initiate the process to assert their parental rights, including custody and visitation. Establishing paternity typically involves DNA testing and legal documentation.
2. Disputing Paternity
   In cases where a man believes he is not the biological father, he may dispute paternity to avoid being held legally responsible for child support. Disputing paternity requires timely action and clear evidence, often involving genetic testing.
3. Changing Legal Paternity
   Situations where a man has acted as the legal father for years, only to later discover he is not the biological father, can be particularly complicated. Courts may weigh the child’s best interests, including emotional bonds, when deciding whether to alter legal paternity.
4. Unmarried Parents
   In cases involving unmarried parents, establishing paternity is often the first legal step toward ensuring the father has parental rights and responsibilities.

Why You Need a Paternity Lawyer

Paternity disputes and claims can have far-reaching consequences for both parents and children. Having a skilled Kings County paternity lawyer ensures you have an advocate who understands the complexities of family law and can protect your interests.

• Protecting Parental Rights: Fathers who want custody, visitation, or decision-making authority must first establish legal paternity.
• Securing Child Support: Establishing paternity allows mothers to pursue financial support for their child’s needs.
• Preventing Injustice: A paternity lawyer can help men dispute false claims of fatherhood or challenge outdated paternity judgments.
• Navigating Emotional Situations: Paternity cases often involve sensitive, high-stakes situations. An experienced lawyer provides objective advice and guidance to help you make informed decisions.

Paternity in Kings County: The Legal Process

In Kings County, establishing or disputing paternity typically involves the following steps:

1. Filing a Paternity Petition
   A paternity case begins with filing a petition in Family Court. Either parent or the child’s legal guardian can initiate this process.
2. Genetic Testing
   If paternity is in question, the court may order a DNA test. These tests are highly accurate and can confirm biological fatherhood with over 99% certainty.
3. Court Hearings
   The court reviews evidence, including test results, and considers the child’s best interests before issuing a paternity order.
4. Legal Outcomes
   Once paternity is established, the father gains legal rights and responsibilities, which may include child support, custody, or visitation.

How Brooklyn Family & Divorce Lawyer MKB Can Help

At Brooklyn Family & Divorce Lawyer MKB, we understand that paternity cases require both legal expertise and compassion. Lead attorney Mary Katherine Brown has years of experience in helping parents navigate these sensitive matters.

Our firm offers:

• Personalized Legal Advice: We take the time to understand your unique circumstances and goals.
• Aggressive Representation: Whether establishing or disputing paternity, we advocate vigorously for your rights.
• Compassionate Support: We know that paternity cases can be stressful, and we’re here to provide empathetic, client-centered service.

FAQs About Paternity in Kings County

1. Can I file for paternity even if the mother disagrees?
   Yes, a father can file a paternity petition in Family Court to establish legal fatherhood, even without the mother’s consent.
2. How long does a paternity case take?
   The timeline varies but often depends on factors like DNA testing and court schedules. Most cases are resolved within several months.
3. Can I challenge paternity after signing an acknowledgment of paternity?
   Yes, but there are strict deadlines and legal criteria. Speak to a paternity lawyer immediately to explore your options.

Contact Us for Paternity Law Help in Kings County

Whether you need to establish paternity to secure your parental rights or contest a paternity claim, we’re here to help. Call Brooklyn Family & Divorce Lawyer MKB at (718) 878-6886 for a consultation. Protect your rights and your child’s future with experienced legal guidance.