Paternity Services

in Cleveland & Northeast Ohio

PATERNITY

If a child is born to unmarried parents in Ohio, legal paternity must be established before the father can request custody, parenting time, or decision-making rights — and before child support can be ordered. Whether you’re a mother, a father, or a presumed parent, we help you navigate the legal process to protect your parental rights and your child’s future.


We represent clients in paternity matters throughout Cleveland, Independence, Westlake, Akron, Beachwood, and surrounding areas.

Why Paternity Matters

PARENTING RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES

Without legal paternity, a father does not have the right to custody or parenting time — even if his name is on the birth certificate.


We help fathers establish paternity so they can take an active role in their child’s life. For mothers, confirming paternity allows for child support, shared parenting, and important legal protections.

HOW TO ESTABLISH PATERNITY IN OHIO

There are several ways to establish paternity:

  • Signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity at the hospital
  • Completing the acknowledgment form later through the Ohio Central Paternity Registry
  • DNA testing ordered by the court if paternity is disputed

We assist with both agreed and contested cases, guiding you through paperwork, testing, and court filings.

DISPUTED PATERNITY CASES

If there is a disagreement about a child’s biological father, either parent can request DNA testing. Once a genetic match is confirmed, the court can officially establish paternity and begin custody and support proceedings.


We represent clients on both sides of contested paternity matters, ensuring the process is handled with accuracy and sensitivity.

AFTER PATERNITY IS ESTABLISHED

Once legal paternity is in place, the next steps may include:

  • Petitioning for custody and parenting time
  • Establishing a parenting plan
  • Determining or modifying child support

Who We Help

We represent:

  • Fathers seeking to secure legal rights to their children
  • Mothers who need to establish paternity for custody or support
  • Clients involved in disputed paternity claims
  • Individuals seeking to amend legal records after paternity is confirmed

OUR APPROACH

  • We provide clear advice on your rights, obligations & next steps
  • We file and respond to paternity actions in juvenile court
  • We coordinate DNA testing when required
  • We stay focused on the child’s long-term wellbeing and stability

FAQs

  • How do I establish paternity in Ohio?

    Paternity can be established by signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity or through DNA testing ordered by the court. Once established, legal rights and responsibilities follow.

  • Why does paternity matter for custody and support?

    Without legal paternity, a father cannot request custody or parenting time. Likewise, child support cannot be ordered without confirming paternity first.

  • Can I get a paternity test through the court?

    Yes. If paternity is disputed, the court can order DNA testing. Results are typically available within a few weeks and are used to determine legal parentage.

  • Can a mother deny paternity testing?

    Either parent can request testing. If the other party refuses, the court can compel them to participate as part of a paternity case.

  • What happens after paternity is established?

    Once legal paternity is confirmed, the court can move forward with custody, parenting time, and child support orders.

Have any more questions?

I WILL GIVE YOU HONEST ADVICE.

We don’t sugarcoat the truth — we give clear, honest advice.

I WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH CLEAR PRICING.

We explain costs upfront so there are no financial surprises.

I WILL LISTEN TO YOU FIRST.

We listen first, then guide you through your legal options.

TOGETHER, WE'LL FOCUS ON YOUR FUTURE.

We focus on practical outcomes that position you for a stronger future.