Paternity Attorneys in Loveland
Simplifying Complex Paternity Cases Since 1989
Paternity disputes and questions about fatherhood can be challenging for both mothers and fathers. For mothers, uncertainties about the biological father can complicate child support and custody arrangements, while also creating unnecessary inheritance issues for children. Fathers, too, face unique challenges that can impede their ability to maintain relationships with their biological children.
At Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C., we understand these complexities. Whether you need help filing legal paperwork, negotiating child support and custody agreements, or handling appeals, we're committed to supporting you every step of the way.
Reasons to Establish Paternity Now
Our Loveland paternity lawyers are skilled at addressing a variety of client needs. Here are some advantages of working with our team to establish paternity:
For Fathers: Gaining legal recognition as a father gives clients the ability to play a more meaningful role in their children’s lives. It also increases their chances of securing favorable divorce outcomes regarding custody or visitation.
For Mothers: Mothers often want to establish paternity to ensure they will be paid child support from the child’s biological father. A mother may also gain access to important insurance benefits her child’s father holds, such as inclusion in health insurance policies.
For Children: Everything our family law team does is centered around the best interests of children. Establishing paternity is one more way we empower children, ensuring they gain access to insurance and inheritance benefits, property, or retirement accounts when the father passes away.
Compassionate Family Law Services For Over 30 Years
Choosing the right team for your paternity case means securing the perfect blend of knowledge, expertise, and compassion. The family law team at Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. offers exactly that.
- 30+ Years of Experience: Over the last three decades, we’ve built a reputation on competence and compassion. Our track record speaks for itself and we encourage you to see what our satisfied clients say about us.
- Custom Legal Solutions: While we believe in upholding Colorado law, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. You are as unique as your case. We will work with you to find a custom solution tailored to your needs and goals.
- A Comprehensive Approach: Our Loveland paternity team has deep knowledge of all matters related to family law. Let us be your guide and ensure you secure a fair and favorable outcome in your case.
- Compassionate Guidance: We believe in efficiency, but not at the expense of kindness and compassion. Our team is dedicated to helping clients overcome common legal obstacles with care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can challenge paternity?
Challenging or establishing paternity through the court can be initiated by:
- An individual who believes they are the biological father
- The mother of a child
- The child or personal representative if they are a minor
- A Department of Social Services representative from the child’s birth location
- An incapacitated or deceased individual’s legal representative who believes the individual they represent are the biological parent of a child
When a family law judge is convinced that establishing paternity is a necessity, they can order the suspected father and the child to take a DNA test. The results of the test can be used to legally establish or deny paternity. However, a mere positive paternity test is not always enough in Colorado to establish legal paternity over a child. Other evidence may be required, such as:
- Documentation showing a biological relationship between the alleged father and the child, such as medical records or genetic testing beyond DNA tests
- Testimony from witnesses who can attest to the relationship between the alleged father and the child
- Other supporting evidence, such as financial support provided by the alleged father or statements acknowledging paternity
What are the benefits of establishing paternity?
It benefits the child, the father, and the mother alike. For the child, it provides legal, emotional, and financial support, including rights to inheritance, social security benefits, and access to the father's medical history. For the father, it establishes the legal right to custody and visitation. For the mother, it can secure child support and share parenting responsibilities. Our lawyers can guide you through the process of establishing paternity to ensure that all parties' rights are protected and upheld.
Can paternity be challenged or disputed?
Yes, especially if new evidence emerges that could question the previously established paternity. The process typically involves filing a petition with the court to either establish or disprove paternity, often accompanied by genetic testing. Challenging paternity can have significant legal and emotional implications, and our attorneys can provide the necessary legal guidance and support throughout this complex process.
What happens if I am named the father but I believe I am not?
In such cases, it's crucial to take legal action immediately to dispute paternity. This usually requires undergoing genetic testing to prove that you are not the biological father. Failing to challenge paternity within a certain timeframe could lead to permanent legal responsibilities for the child, including child support obligations, regardless of biological relation.
How does paternity affect child support and custody decisions?
Once paternity is established, the father has both rights and obligations regarding the child. This includes the obligation to provide financial support and the right to seek a role in decision-making or visitation. Child support amounts are determined based on both parents' incomes, the child's needs, and custody arrangements. Our lawyers can help ensure that paternity determinations are accurately made and that any resulting child support and custody agreements are fair and in the best interest of the child.
We Simplify Complex Paternity Disputes—the Right Way
While establishing paternity can be intensive—especially if one party does not want to cooperate or does not understand the purpose of it—our experienced team offers strategies to streamline this legal process. Contact Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. today. We are here to guide you through every step of the paternity process, ensuring your rights are protected, and your family’s best interests are served.
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